Unit B1a: Topic 1 - Environment

As usual, new food production techniques raise new ethical, social and environmental questions.

Guidance for students: Why are so many people worried about GM technology?

Glossary: Genetic engineering, genetically modified and organic.

Learning outcomes: Students will be assessed on their ability to;

• Discuss the ethics and principles of organic farming and explain why organic products are more expensive than non-organic produce
• (Understand that crop plants can be genetically modified and the reasons for doing so)

Unit B1a: Topic 2 - Genes

Scientists are able to extract and modify genes in order to change the properties of crops and animals used as food. Scientists are also able to clone organisms and some scientists hope to produce cloned body parts for transplantation surgery. Studying this topic gives students opportunities to interpret data produced through breeding experiments. Students can use various kinds of resources to consider the benefits, drawbacks and risks of scientific decisions are made and how ethical concerns of society can be considered, for example in relation to cloning.