San People Draft Code of Ethics for Researchers

SCIENCE Scientists have studied the San people of Southern Africa for decades, intrigued by their age-old rituals and ancient genetic fingerprints. Now, after more than a century of being scrutinized by science, the San are demanding something back. The group has unveiled a code of ethics for researchers wishing to study their culture or genetic heritage. (Science) Use our resources to learn more about Africa’s … Continue reading San People Draft Code of Ethics for Researchers

White House Drops the Microbiome

UNITED STATES Half a billion dollars are being pledged to study the microbes in crops, soils, oceans—and humans. (The Atlantic) Take a look at some of these “misunderstood microbes” with our video study guide. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit. Discussion Ideas President Obama recently announced the launch of the $121-million National Microbiome Initiative. What is a … Continue reading White House Drops the Microbiome

Circle of Life

SCIENCE Scientists have released a new version of the tree of life, showing everything we know about how the 2.3 million living things of Earth are related to one another. (Washington Post) Learn what criteria scientists use to classify organisms with our activity. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit—and check out the bolded items for some great … Continue reading Circle of Life

Where You Grow Up Matters

UNITED STATES New studies show that where poor kids grow up has a huge effect on how much money they earn as adults. How does your county measure up? (New York Times) “Neighborhoods matter in a really big way,” says one researcher. Use our resources to better understand neighborhoods. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit. Discussion Ideas … Continue reading Where You Grow Up Matters

Medieval Potion Kills Modern Superbug

HEALTH It might sound like a really old wives’ tale, but a 1,000-year-old Anglo-Saxon potion may hold the key to wiping out the modern-day superbug MRSA. (CNN) Use our microscopic image to get a good look at MRSA. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit. Watch this terrific video about the AncientBiotics Project! Discussion Ideas The medieval treatment … Continue reading Medieval Potion Kills Modern Superbug