Cloning

Introduction

Cloning is the process of generating a genetically identical copy of a cell or an organism. Cloning happens often in nature-for example, when a cell replicates itself asexually without any genetic alteration or recombination. Prokaryotic organisms such as bacteria create genetically identical duplicates of themselves using binary fission or budding. In eukaryotic organisms such as humans, all the cells that undergo mitosis, such as skin cells and cells lining the gastrointestinal tract, are clones, the only exceptions are gametes, which undergo meiosis and genetic recombination.

In recent years companies have even developed technogies to clone your pet for a heavy price tag. 

Can you think of other uses of cloning? Do you think cloning is ethical? Can you foresee any issues with cloning? Would you want a clone?

Task

You may pick one of two job titles:

1. Researcher: your job is to write up a proposal about a gene of interest you need to clone. For example this can be for a protein such as an enzyme that people with a particular disorder lack. You need to convince the head of your company why you think this is a good idea and why you think it will work

OR

2. You are opening your own business in which you will be cloning pets. You need to make some kind of ad ( you may use PPT, a pod cast radio ad, a video, etc...) that describes to your client how the cloning process takes place and the risks.

These will be presented to the class.

Process
  • You may work alone or in a group with a maximum of four people.
  • You/your group has to pick which of the 2 jobs you want to do.
  • Research: find out as much as you can about your topic.
  • Discuss your plan of action: I encourage technology and creativity. If you need additional tools for technology let me know and I can check with tech support.
  • You will have 3-4 class periods to work on this. The rest must be done on your own time.

 

Evaluation

See my rubric:

http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php?screen=ShowRubric&rubric_id=193…

You will have to create a username or password. If you have problems with this see me and I will give you a hard copy.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this quest will help you fully grasp the concept of cloning😀

Credits