Biotechnology Sample Syllabus
Course Description: This course is designed to introduce students to areas and concepts involved in Biotechnology. In addition, students will learn to apply scientific methods of study and concepts through research and hands-on experiments. This course will strengthen the students' knowledge of science and give them a better understanding of various biology, chemistry, and botany concepts.
Course Content:
A. Introduction to Biotechnology
1. Define
Biotechnology
2. List the steps in the
Scientific Method
3. Prepare a laboratory
report
4. Practice lab safety
5. Become familiar with
terms associated with Biotechnology
6. Discuss the history
of Biotechnology and its discoveries
7. Maintain a contaminant
free experiment
B. Genetics
1. Become familiar
with terms used in the study of genetics
2. Discuss the
difference between Meiosis and Mitosis
3. Discuss genetic
engineering and its uses
4. Make a model DNA
molecule
5. Extract DNA from
cells
6. Determine phenotype
and genotype using the Punnet Square
C. Impacts of Biotechnology
1. Discuss the pros
and cons related to the use of Biotechnology
2. Identify the impacts
of Biotechnology through its results
3. Write a position
paper directed toward an ethical issue within Biotechnology
4. Identify regulatory
agencies involved in Biotechnology
5. Discuss career
opportunities within Biotechnology
6. Determine the
environmental impact of Biotechnology by experimenting with salt and
plant growth
7. Hypothesize on the
future role of Biotechnology
D. Biotechnology and Plants
1. Become familiar
with terms used in plant Biotechnology
2. Discuss the uses of
Biotechnology in plants
3. Discuss the impact of
plant Biotechnology on agriculture and the economy
4. Perform micro propagation
5. Perform plant tissue
culture
E. Biotechnology and Animals
1. Become familiar
with terms used in animal Biotechnology
2. Discuss the uses of
Biotechnology in animals
3. Identify the
applications of animal Biotechnology
4. Write an opinion
statement and debate an issue pertaining to animal Biotechnology
5. Evaluate livestock
semen for the purpose of artificial insemination
F. Microbial Biotechnology
1. Become familiar
with terms used in microbial Biotechnology
2. Identify
microorganisms used in microbial Biotechnology
3. Discuss the benefits
of microbial Biotechnology
4. Discuss fermentation
and its importance
5. Study microbial
Biotechnology through the construction of a biodegradation experiment
Grading Policy: The course will follow the school grading policy.
93-100 A
85-92 B
75-84 C
65-74 D
below 64 F
Grades will be determined by averaging test scores to equal 65% of the grade, averaging scores earned through hands-on classroom laboratory activities, projects, and notebooks to equal 30% of the grade, and the score earned in the area of their supervised project to equal 5% of the grade.
Other items to consider when completing this course syllabus include:
1. Textbook used
2. Behavior expectations or routine you want followed
3. What to bring to class each day
4. Supplies or money that will be needed for the class
5. Any other item you feel would help parents and students know what to
expect.
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