MassBioEd Educators
Curriculum
BioTeach’s curricula draw on the creativity, experience, and knowledge of scientists, higher education professionals, and a network of teachers. For each topic, you will find student materials, teacher materials, student-centered investigations, and more.
Curriculum resources are free of charge, but registration is required. View our library of curricula below.
Careers in Action – Food Allergies & Gut Microbiome | Grades 6-8
Three-day case study exploring the link between food allergies and the gut microbiome, where students analyze real data and role-play science professionals.
Careers in Action – The Plastics Problem | Grades 6-8
A three-day case study exploring the environmental impact of single-use plastics and the development of bioplastics, where students analyze real data and role-play science professionals.
BioScann – HIV Drug Development | Grades 6-9
Students analyze real data and role-play science professionals as they follow a patient through a clinical trial and explore the drug development process. 3-day study with optional pre-work.
Nature of Science Activities | Grades 6-8
These activities help students think like scientists by practicing making observations, testing predictions, and using evidence to support their conclusions.
Molecular Rainbow | Grades 6-10
An introduction to gel electrophoresis. Analyze dye samples to identify their charge and relative size. Optional Unknowns.
The Dachshund Dilemma | Grades 8-10
Use gel electrophoresis to analyze dye samples—simulating DNA fragments—from a surprise litter of puppies. Identify the puppies’ father by tracking the inheritance of hair length.
Pipette Practice Activities | Grades 6-12
A series of activities to better understand micro-measurement and to improve student pipetting technique.
Modeling Molecular Biology | Grades 9-10
Model DNA, RNA, and protein structure and function with MIT Ederton Center Molecular Models. The lessons can be easily adapted for different learning levels, including advanced lessons on DNA and proteins.
Burping Yeast | Grades 9-12
Construct a tool to measure cellular respiration in baker’s yeast and investigate the effect of temperature on the rate of respiration—optional student-centered investigations.
Exploring Antibiotic Resistance | Grades 9-12
Use gel electrophoresis to separate PCR products and confirm if a family has an antibiotic-resistant strain of Streptococcus.
