Schools
Resource Directory
In addition to the Centre's teaching resources here are some key, tried and tested, resources to support Australian school teachers:
If you have have further suggestions for resources to add to this directory please contact us.
(In alphabetical order)
Biotechnology Explorer Program
Biotechnology company BioRad Laboratories has developed educational school materials and innovative kits for practical work.Education portal developed by Biotechnology Australia, an initiative of the Australian Commonwealth Government.
An animated resource (requires free Macromedia Shockwave Plug-in) produced for the 2001 Royal Institution Christmas lectures presented by Nobel Laureate Sir John Sulston. Chromosome 11 is a fictitious genetic case study where the social, ethical and medical aspects of an inherited disease are investigated as the user is guided through a mock genetic counselling session. This activity focuses on the outcomes of Mendelian inheritance, and how a gene for disease can pass through generations.
DNA Interactive website and DVD
The DNA Interactive website produced by the Dolan DNA Learning Centre is an extensive high quality educational website exploring the history and science behind the human genome project. Teachers can use a lesson builder facility to create their own lessons based on the sites materials which students can then access online. The associated four hour DNA Interactive DVD, produced with international collaborators, includes interviews with many of the key players in the ‘genetic revolution’ and a series of high quality animations which bring DNA science to life. The DVD is available free of charge to secondary schools in Australia, New Zealand and Oceania (post and packaging $5AUD) by contacting the Gene Technology Access Centre. Teachers in other countries should check the DNA Interactive website for order details.
Free articles and resources from New Scientist magazine
Extracting DNA in your kitchen
A very simple procedure to extract DNA from onions from the CSIRO’s Double Helix Science Club
A section of the ABC’s website including news and program transcripts.
Based around six professionally produced plays for schools, several of which have been developed into television productions. Contains high quality video clips and studio. Extensive teachers support materials on the science and implications.
Hot Topics: Human Genetic Information
Includes accessible resources on the Science of Genetics, Genetic Testing, Insurance, DNA and Criminal Law and Parentage Testing. Part of a series Legal Issues in Plain Langauage published by the State Library of New South Wales and written by the Australian Law Reform Commission. Available to view online and also in a printed version
The Human Genome: Your Genes, Your Health, Your Future
This website aims to provide key information about the human genome: the science, its role in health and medicine, and the broader social impact of unravelling its mysteries. The site is produced by the Wellcome Trust, an independent research-funding charity which funded part of the public initiative to map and sequence the human genome.
Inheritance and genetic disease
Lesson packs based on articles from UK newspapers The Guardian and The Observer. Available in three different versions for different student levels.
Over 70 biotechnology practicals most of which can be used in open ended work.
CSIRO Education in New South Wales run two DNA related workshops for students either at their base in Lindfield or taking workshops out to your school. Discovering DNA is for NSW Stage 5 students and Gene Technology in Action is for for NSW Stage 6 Students.
This minisite, produced by the Dolan DNA Learning Centre Your Genes Your Health profiles 15 different genetic conditions.