Title: Recombinant DNA and Biotechnology

Description: This paperbound textbook for high school and junior college classes comes in both teacher and student versions.  The 114 pp. "Laying the Foundation" section introduces genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology.  A variety of hands-on activities, including both wet and dry labs, are included, e.g. "Extraction of Bacterial DNA" and "Recombinant Paper Plasmids".  These exercises are accompanied by detailed instructions and planning assistance in the teacher edition.  A separate section addresses ethical issues and includes case studies in gene therapy and genetic screening.  The teacher's edition contains an outline of how the material covered aligns with national standards.  

Strengths: This text provides an excellent foundation in genetics and molecular biology that leads to a strong understanding of both concepts and laboratory manipulations.  Well-designed paper and wet labs support the content.  This text is paperbound and so is relatively inexpensive.  An extensive glossary is available in the back of the book for easy reference.

Weaknesses: Because it is paperbound, this resource is not as durable as hardbound options.  The focus on recombinant DNA technology limits the scope of what is covered.

Keywords: DNA structure, inheritance, genes, chromosomes, variation, meiosis, sexual reproduction, evolution, mutation, biotechnology, medical genetics, bioethics, bacteria

Genetics concepts addressed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9
(view genetics concepts)

Other subjects addressed: Mathematics (probability)

last updated 6/09/00