http://blonde-doctor.livejournal.com/ ([identity profile] blonde-doctor.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] fandomhigh2006-10-03 08:21 am
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Biology, Tuesday, 10/03, Period 2

There were muffins and juice set up for the class on a table at the front of the room, and Elliot was smiling as she waited to address the class. "Hey, everyone. As I promised, your first quiz is today. On the upside? Free food. It's only five questions so it shouldn't take that long.

"After you're done with the quiz, I'd like for you to read the chapter in your books on biotechnology, which technically means, quote, 'any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use.' In the U.S., though, we mostly say it to mean combining DNAs or tissues of different animals or plants -- things like making tomatoes that have enough firefly DNA to glow in the dark. I'd like for you to come up with a biotechnology project you think could be neat -- or an argument against all uses of biotechnology, if you swing that way -- and share it with the class."

"Finally, Ms. Frizzle and I are working on a couple of things together. For one, no class on the 24th -- you're going on a field trip with her class on the 26th to learn about anatomy instead. Meet on the stairs in front of the school before seventh period. If you can't make it, that's cool, but please let me know in advance so we don't wait for you.

Second, there will be a school-wide science fair on December 14. Participation is completely voluntary, but if you want to enter something, your experiment design will count as your midterm project. That's due on November 7. "

"I think that's it; time to get quizzy with it."

Re: Biotechnology discussion, Biology, 10/03

[identity profile] izzyalienqueen.livejournal.com 2006-10-03 08:58 pm (UTC)(link)
"I'm all for the healthy, but still decadent ice cream," Isabel agreed. "But you are right about the problems they have with crops. What keeps the genetically engineered stuff from mixing with the regular crops?"

Re: Biotechnology discussion, Biology, 10/03

[identity profile] mparkerceo.livejournal.com 2006-10-03 09:56 pm (UTC)(link)
"Exactly. There's no point if you make it infertile. ABut you could get a 'superweed' if something cross-pollinates wrong." Parker made a face. "And you can't grow everything in greenhouses to protect them. Too expensive."