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the Biology Teachers Association of NJ and the National Association of Biology Teachers

For Educators - Stem Cell Curriculum



Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR)
'High School Level Unit' explores the scientific and ethical issues involved in stem cell research. Use Planaria in the lab, model human embryonic development to define the characteristics of the different types of stem cells. Learn the tools and techniques for obtaining stem cells along with policies and regulations. Use powerpoints, handouts, essential background pedagogical information with access to an Ethics Primer to facilitate productive discussion with your classes.
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NWABR Stem Cell Curriculum
   (Secondary Unit)

Individual Lessons Available for Download


This unit, which was designed by teachers in conjunction with scientists, ethicists, and curriculum developers, explores the scientific and ethical issues involved in stem cell research. The unit begins with an exploration of planaria as a model organism for stem cell research. Next, students identify stages in the development of human embryos and compare the types and potency of stem cells. Students learn about a variety of techniques used for obtaining stem cells and the scientific and ethical implications of those techniques. While exploring the ethics of stem cell research, students will develop an awareness of the many shades of gray that exist among positions of stakeholders in the debate. Students will be provided an opportunity to become familiar with policies and regulations for stem cell research that are currently in place in the United States, the issues regarding private and public funding, and the implications for treatment of disease and advancement of scientific knowledge.

The unit culminates with students developing a position on embryonic stem cell research through the use of a Decision-Making Framework. Two culminating assessments are offered: In the individual assessment, students write a letter to the President or the President's Bioethics Committee describing their position and recommendations; In the group assessment, students develop a proposal for NIH funding to research treatment for a chosen disease using either embryonic or 'adult' stem cells.

The complete Stem Cell Curriculum is now available free for download. In order for us to measure how our curriculum resources are being used, we request that you please complete the brief information form before being directed to the download page. We will not share your contact information with anyone, although we may contact you in the future in ordert to determine how our materials are being used.

Sample lesson:
Lesson One - Stem Cell Development
Students model early embryonic development using Play-dough. In addition, they observe prepared slides of early sea star/sea urchin development. Students associate cells from different embryonic stages with their potency.

Planaria Laboratory Activity
Students use Planaria as a model organism for understanding stem cell concepts, including stem cell potency.
Teacher Overview

Assessments
Students complete a Decison-Making Framework to consider the larger moral and ethical issues behind the use of in vitro fertilized embryos in developing stem cell lines. The framework serves as a basis for the final assessments. Option 1 is an Individual Assessment where students write A Letter to the President's Bioethics Commission. Option 2 is a Group Assessment where students prepare A Grant Application for NIH funding to research treatment for a disease using either 'adult' or embryonic stem cells.

Appendix
* Classroom Discussion of Ethics
* Ethics Discussion Evaluation Rubric
* Additional Teacher Background
* Selected Stem Cell Resources

In order for NWABR to measure how their curriculum resources are being used, they request that you please complete the brief information form. Please do so now by clicking here to submit your information to NWABR.