Working Scientifically - Health Discoveries Research Task

Activity

This activity is a stage 4 research project where students are required to research an important health discovery, different people's views on it, and draw their own conclusions about it's effectiveness and ethical issues based on their research. Students are able to choose from a number of different health issues, therefore all students will be able to find something they are interested and engaged in to look at. The questions are also specific to the health issue, therefore students will be able to use these specific questions to frame and assist with their research. 

Students are also required to present their work creatively, including making a worksheet for the class. By working in groups, there is room for delegation where students can pick a task that plays to their strengths. These could include: researching, creating a visual aid, presenting to the class, managing the group etc. Students are also given a marking rubric so they understand exactly what the teacher's expectations are of them in this project.

Syllabus Dotpoints Covered

WS7.1 Students process data and information by: d. accessing information from a range of sources, including using digital technologies

WS8 Students solve problems by: c. using scientific knowledge and findings from investigations to evaluate claims

WS9 Students communicate by: a. presenting ideas, findings and solutions to problems using scientific language and representations using digital technologies as appropriate (ACSIS133, ACSIS148)

LW4

a. research an example of how changes in scientific knowledge have contributed to finding a solution to a human health issue

c. describe, using examples, how developments in technology have contributed to finding solutions to a contemporary issue, eg organ transplantation, artificial joints/limbs, treatment for diabetes, asthma, kidney or heart disease

d. give examples to show that groups of people in society may use or weight criteria differently in making decisions about the application of a solution to a contemporary issue, eg organ transplantation, control and prevention of diseases and dietary deficiencies

Activity Sheet

The Marking Rubric Sheet can be downloaded from this link
Listed below are the different topic assignment sheets

Assignment Sheet: Organ Transplants

Assignment Sheet: Prosthetic (Artificial) Limbs

Assignment Sheet: Genetically Modified Foods

Assignment Sheet: Food Irradiation

Assignment Sheet: Ebola