Genetic Modification (continued)
Overview
Genetic modification is not just for medicine. By inserting chosen genes into crop plants, scientists have made maize that fights off insects, soya that survives weedkillers, and rice that carries extra vitamin A to prevent childhood blindness. The promise is huge, but so is the controversy.
In this lesson you will outline the main uses of genetic modification, from human proteins in bacteria to herbicide-resistant, pest-resistant and more nutritious crops, and then (for [Supplement]) weigh the advantages and disadvantages of GM crops such as soya, maize and rice, reaching a balanced judgement of your own.
Objectives
- Outline examples of genetic modification: (a) the insertion of human genes into bacteria to produce human proteins (b) the insertion of genes into crop plants to confer resistance to herbicides (c) the insertion of genes into crop plants to confer resistance to insect pests (d) the insertion of genes into crop plants to improve nutritional qualities
- [Supplement] Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of genetically modifying crops, including soya, maize and rice
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Genetic Modification (continued). Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Inserting a gene so a crop makes its own insect toxin gives the crop: A. herbicide resistance B. insect-pest resistance C. drought resistance D. extra vitamin A Answer: B
- Golden rice has been genetically modified to contain more: A. protein B. vitamin A C. iron D. sugar Answer: B
- A herbicide-resistant GM crop allows farmers to: A. spray weedkiller without harming the crop B. stop watering the crop C. avoid harvesting D. remove all insects Answer: A
- [Supplement] A major ecological concern about GM crops is that: A. they cannot reproduce B. modified genes could spread to wild plants C. they need no soil D. they grow too slowly Answer: B
- [Supplement] An advantage of GM over conventional cross-breeding is that: A. the whole genome is transferred B. only the wanted gene is transferred C. it is always cheaper D. no genes are changed Answer: B
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