Artificial Selection & Genetic Engineering Real-World Case Study | Life Science | Grades 6–8

This Real-World Case Study asks grades 6–8 Middle School Life Science students to weigh a real decision about Artificial Selection & Genetic Engineering and defend a solution with evidence.

Scenario: In the 1900s, the American chestnut tree was the dominant canopy tree across eastern North America—growing over 100 feet tall, feeding wildlife with billions of protein-rich nuts, and providing rot-resistant timber. Between 1904 and 1950, an imported fungal pathogen (Cryphonectria parasitica) swept through forests and killed… Key question: "Should federal regulators approve the release of Darling 58 transgenic chestnut trees to restore eastern forests? Support your decision by weighing both sides."

What's inside: the scenario, 5 questions to consider, an answer key, arguments for and against for the teacher, and teacher notes.

Resource type: Case Study (.docx). Format: editable Microsoft Word handout with approximately 980 words (~6 pages).

Classroom use: independent response, small-group comparison, and a whole-class debate in a Middle School Life Science course. Grades 6–8.

Format note: These files are delivered in Microsoft Office formats (Word and/or PowerPoint). If you open a worksheet that includes tables in Apple Pages or another non-Microsoft app, table formatting may not display correctly. For best results, use Microsoft Word or PowerPoint (or upload the file to Google Docs). If you run into any formatting issues, contact us and we can send a PDF version.