Biotech & “The Hunger Games”

Warm-Up, Pre-Info In the movie “The Hunger Games,” the Capitol (a term used to refer to what we would call the government) produced genetically enhanced birds called jabberjays to spy on rebels. Unexpectedly, these birds bred with mockingbirds, creating a new hybrid bird called the mockingjay. The Capitol did not intend for this to happen, and the bird became a symbol of rebellion.

Warm-up - Question Could a scenario like this, where a genetically engineered organism hybridizes with a wild animal or plant, happen in the real world? Why or why not?

Class Discussion… Could a scenario like the one depicted in “The Hunger Games” happen in the real world? What conditions would be required for a genetically engineered organism to hybridize with a wild animal or plant? What steps could be put in place to keep this from happening?

DIY biology A growing movement, in which anyone can acquire the basic tools of biotechnology and potentially engineer new organisms of their own.

NY Times Article “D.I.Y. Biology, on the wings of the Mockingjay”

Now it’s your turn… Dream up your own Genetically Modified Organism that could be used by the government. It might be used for a spy mission, to encrypt secret messages, etc. Create your own prototype (illustration) along with the origins, purpose, and special characteristics of your GMO. Finally, create a brochure that ‘sells’ your GMO…why should your creation be chosen over someone else's?