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ERIC Number: EJ766274
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Feb
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0002-7685
EISSN: N/A
The Infection Dynamics of a Hypothetical Virus in a High School: Use of an Ultraviolet Detectable Powder
Baltezore, Joan M.; Newbrey, Michael G.
American Biology Teacher, v69 n2 p99-103 Feb 2007
The purpose of this paper is to provide background information about the spread of viruses in a population, to introduce an adaptable procedure to further the understanding of epidemiology in the high school setting, and to show how hypothesis testing and statistics can be incorporated into a high school lab exercise. It describes a project which permits students to investigate how an infectious agent can spread and gives them experience with data collection. To facilitate learning more about infectious agents, the biology students at West Fargo High School (WFHS) are required to read the book, "The Hot Zone" (Preston, 1994). The students enjoy the book and learn about modes of viral transmission, viral ecology, and how scientists track the spread of a virus. Through classroom discussion and study guides, the students come to understand that behavior, traditions, and customs can influence the spread of disease. However, to provide an authentic learning experience, students can also study a simulated disease outbreak within their high school. The "lab" activity presented in this paper permits students to function as data-collecting scientists who are studying infection dynamics of a hypothetical virus in their school using an ultraviolet powder (UVP) called "Glo-Germ," which is detectable by hand-held, battery-operated, ultraviolet lights (UV lights). The study of disease transmission is relevant to students because many have part-time jobs, do volunteer work, or will be employed in medical facilities, daycare centers, or other public positions. (Contains 5 figures, 1 table and 1 footnote.)
National Association of Biology Teachers. 12030 Sunrise Valley Drive #110, Reston, VA 20191. Tel: 800-406-0775; Tel: 703-264-9696; Fax: 703-264-7778; e-mail: publication@nabt.org; Web site: http://www.nabt.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A