Our fast-paced, interconnected world needs thinkers who can cross traditional boundaries between areas of knowledge. This course will pair reading and discussion of contemporary and classic dystopian literature for young people with hands-on activities which introduce the basic principles of human genetics. We will move seamlessly back and forth between the “macro”—the Big Questions about what makes for human flourishing, both as individuals and societies–-and the “micro”—getting to know the molecular mechanisms that make us who we are. Students will consider how the futuristic, imaginary worlds they encounter in the novels might help us decide how, or whether, to use some of the increasingly sophisticated techniques we possess for manipulating human patterns of inheritance.
Each day will be a balance of discussion, literary analysis, science topics and hands-on activities. Readings include three age-appropriate, thought-provoking dystopian novels as well as short stories, poems and song lyrics. Our scientific investigations will focus on traits and inheritance, DNA and its replication, and mechanisms of genetic change. We will also take a peek at modern molecular biology techniques. Students will engage in daily interactive projects including data collection, games, model building, simulations, role-playing, and “wet lab” experiments. Finally, using what they have learned, students will work in small groups to imagine their own ideal society and present their creation in a persuasive and artistic way to their classmates and parents.