Nanobacteria

By Merri Lynn Casem

Abstract

This case study was developed for a first-semester foundations course for biology majors. It is based on two conflicting reports in the scientific literature on the status of nanobacteria as living organisms in order to explore basic concepts related to the biological definition of life and the process of scientific investigation. In addition to engaging students with these topics, the case highlights the ambiguities inherent in science, and creates a forum for debate and discussion regarding the ability to arrive at “right answers.”

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Date Posted

12/05/01

Overview

Objectives

Develop an accurate biological definition of life.
Propose an experiment to test one property of life.
Analyze and interpret experimental data.
Evaluate a hypothesis.
Support conclusions based on evidence.

Keywords

Nanobacteria; biomineralization; definition of life; bacteria; experimental design

Subject Headings

Biology (General)

Microbiology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

Scientific argumentation, Scientific method

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Interrupted, Journal Article

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

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Answer Key

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