In this lesson, students will:

• Explain what stem cells are, where they are found, and how they may be used. 
• In small groups, create diagrams and glossaries to illustrate their knowledge of stem cells.
• Evaluate and defend or attack President Obama's ruling on federal spending for stem cell research, using authentic news stories.

In this activity you will first produce an ethical matrix and then use it as a tool to discuss some ethical issues surrounding stem cells.

An extract from the BBSRC publication Stem cells - science and ethics (3rd edition).

Each of the five units begins with a list of the learning standards that can be taught using the materials, including lesson plans, power points, videos, background information for teachers, interactive activities, assessment tools and separate glossaries for teachers and students.

In this module, students will explore the scientific, conceptual, and ethical implications of embryonic stem cell research. Why should they care? The decision on whether to allow or ban stem cell research may have a signifycant impact on the lives and welfare of thousands if not millions of people. The reason the debate between advocates and opponents of stem cell research is so fierce is that the arguments used are based on deep seated beliefs about the nature and the status of human life and personhood. This lesson involves class discussion, small group and individual activities.

This dialogue based lesson includes a case study, 24 stakeholders' parts, an assessment rubric and poster building instructions to determine whether a stem cell research company should be granted a business license to operate.  Students take on roles of stakeholders or town council members. Prior background knowledge includes: stem cells, possible treatments using stem cells and stakeholders.

In this case study, a couple must decide what to do with unused frozen embryos from an in vitro fertilization procedure. Students form groups as stakeholders to discuss and present possible solutions.  Prior knowledge includes: what stem cells are, where embryonic stem cells come from, potential therapies using embryonic stem cells