LESSON PLAN: STEM CELL RESEARCH: THE DEBATE OVER EMBRYONIC AND
ADULT STEM CELL USE
Name: ______________________________________
Date: _____________
Fact Finding Worksheet
Directions: Working in pairs or small groups, use library and internet resources to learn as much
as you can about stem cell research and current stem cell based therapies. When answering
questions, be sure to document your information sources like all good scientists do. Use
additional paper if you run out of space for answering a specific question. Be prepared to share
what you have learned with your classmates. All group members must complete their own copy
of the worksheet for use on a later project.
1. What is the definition of a stem cell?
Source:
2. What is the difference between adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells?
Source:
3. What is a blastocyst?
Source:
4. What parts of the human body contain stem cells?
Source:
5. What is a stem cell line?
Source:
1
6. In what ways might the use of embryonic stem cells be better than the use of adult stem cells?
Source:
7. In what ways might the use of adult stem cells be better than the use of embryonic stem cells?
Source:
8. How can stem cells be used to treat diseases and injuries? List current uses.
Source:
9. What are some of the current experimental ways that stem cells are being used to treat disease
and injuries?
Source:
10. Why is there controversy about using embryonic stem cells?
Source:
11. Why has government funding for stem cell research been limited?
Source:
2
12. Describe the process used for harvesting embryonic stem cells.
Source:
13. Describe the process used for harvesting adult stem cells.
Source:
14. Describe the process of using adult stem cells to treat a specific disease.
Source:
15. Describe what type of human tissues, organs, or other cells have been grown from human
stem cells.
Source:
16. List all other interesting facts, examples, or data you...