Science Weekly Bell Ringers: Biotechnology

These 4 daily bell ringers can be used as warmups, exit-tickets, and inserts for interactive notebooks. They are formatted to fit within a single sheet of paper (front and back) to be used as quick printables, but each warmup is contained in a separate box for easy cut-outs. This week-long set focuses on Biotechnology.

These bell ringers are designed to quickly get students on task, stimulate class discussions to help lead into your lesson, and help practice content literacy and critical thinking skills. I have included a detailed answer key with extra information and common responses for open ended questions so teachers will be confident during class discussions.

1. Quote of the Week: (Dennis Kleid): development of human insulin using recombinant DNA techniques
2. Connecting Topics: (GMO Crops): Students read a short passage about the pros and cons of using GMO crops with a highlight on Bt corn and cotton before answering a Reading Informational text (RI) standard question.
3. Core Content: (Calculating profit for farmers) 2 multiple choice questions about the data table and a follow-up question to demonstrate a stronger mastery.
4. Depth of Knowledge: (Dilemmas) Students will apply their understanding of various fields of biotechnology to construct an argument for or against the advancement of a chosen field. (easily modified into a discussion/summary if you anticipate controversy between students)

After students complete these 4 warm-ups, I usually start Day 5 by allowing them to review the warm-ups and passing out an assessment to check for understanding and participation. I have included multiple versions of the Day 5 assessment.

• Standard print version (2 per sheet -- cut in half)
• Modified (IEP) print version (1 less answer choice per question + slightly larger font)
• Digital version via google forms (editable and able to be graded automatically)

Please download the preview file so you can get a feel for the difficulty and style or try these with your class using my FREE OCEANOGRAPHY SAMPLE.

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