Cracking the Claim: Scientific Literacy
Activity Description :
Students distinguish between different types of scientific literature and media. They learn how to search and access scientific journal articles, how to differentiate between the different sections of an article, and how to read the article and interpret data and figures present. Students use one of Phillip A. Sharp's articles for this activity. Lastly, students learn about the importance of collaboration in the scientific community.
ACTIVITY TYPE(S) : Worksheet, Discussion
DURATION : 2 days, 45-60 minute class periods
SUBJECT AREAS : AP Biology and Biotechnology Pathways
KEY CONCEPTS : The importance of publishing and understanding scientific literature, and distinguishing between proven scientific content and misinformation.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES : To identify valid scientific literature and to successfully research and interpret a scientific journal article
BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED : Protein synthesis — The process by which cells create proteins, consisting of transcription (DNA to RNA) and translation (RNA to protein).
STANDARDS ALIGNMENT :
NGSS HS-LS1-1: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to important distinctions the author makes and to any gaps or inconsistencies in the account.
Activity Resources :
Two ways to watch
This film is available in two versions: an 84-minute television cut, free to stream on PBS and the PBS App, and a 97-minute director's cut, available on Hoopla and Kanopy or by request from Uncommon Productions.
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