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Current Science Issues: Is Gardasil a Safe Vaccine for Young Women to prevent HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)?

Lesson Overview 

This lesson teaches students to use current media (newspapers, magazines, 
and the internet)to research a controversial topic in health science today.

Goals and Objectives 

1. To train students to research and evaluate public health issues

2. To help students find supporting and opposing arguments in science literature.

3. Have students learn how to write a position paper. 



Common Misconceptions 



The Lesson 

Preparation Before class:  1 computer per student, LCD projector with speakers and computer for teacher
Prepared handouts 
  
Describe any pre-class preparation necessary for the lesson. 

Xerox handouts [[image:Student Handout.doc]]

You will use the Internet to objectively research a current science issue. After gathering and reflecting on five Pro arguments and five Con arguments, you will write a short position paper that clearly states your point of view and in which your reasoning is supported by fact rather than emotion.

Position paper

Use the information on the other side of this page to write your four paragraphs paper. Each paragraph will
have the following components:

Paragraph #1 (Introduction)


1. Describe the theory or controversy that exists by defining science terms.

2. Clearly identify the position of the paper in the third person.


1.Paragraph #2 (Body)

2.Describe at least two arguments to support the position of the paper. The arguments need to be:
  clearly explained in detail.

3Based on scientific evidence that has been verified with valid experiments (emotional reasons
are unacceptable).

4Acknowledged with the source(s) of information used to build your argument.


Paragraph #3


Refute the main argument for the opposing viewpoint.


Paragraph #4 (Conclusion)


Summarize the main points and suggest future action. Your future action should describe one of the following:

1Additional research that is needed to strengthen your position

2Additional research that is needed to expose weaknesses of the opposing position

3Application of this theory to a similar topic

4Governmental laws that are needed immediately to support your position.

>>>>> Adapted and reprinted with permission from Lynn Ocorr.



Suggestions for Extended Learning 

Suggest any extensions to the lesson. 

Glossary 

HPV - human papilloma virus
Cervical cancer - disease affecting the cervix


Education Standards 

Science in Personal and Social Perspectives: Safety and security are basic needs of humans. Safety involves freedom from danger, risk, or injury. Security involves feelings of confidence and lack of anxiety and fear.  Students understandings include following safety rules for home and school, preventing abuse and neglect, avoiding injury, knowing whom to ask for help, and when and how to say no.