A New Kind of Corn

Front

What is Bt corn?

Back

Bt corn is a genetically modified corn that has been altered to produce a protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which helps protect it from certain pests.

Front

What does genetically modified mean?

Back

Genetically modified (GM) means that the genetic material of an organism has been changed using biotechnology to achieve desired traits.

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CCSS.RI.3.3

CCSS.RI.3.5

CCSS.RI.4.3

CCSS.RI.4.5

CCSS.RI.5.3

Front

What is the main concern about Bt corn?

Back

The main concern is that there is no proof that Bt corn is safe to grow and eat.

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What does the word prevalent mean?

Back

Prevalent means widespread or commonly occurring.

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CCSS.RI.3.4

CCSS.RI.4.4

CCSS.RI.5.4

CCSS.RL.4.4

CCSS.RL.5.1

Front

How do scientists create Bt corn?

Back

Scientists create Bt corn by changing the genetic code of the corn to include a gene that produces a pest-repelling protein.

Front

What is the purpose of testing GM foods?

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The purpose of testing GM foods is to determine if they are safe for consumers.

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What is a common concern people have about their food at lunchtime?

Back

A common concern is whether the food is cooked properly, such as wondering if the chicken is cooked all the way.

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CCSS.RI.2.1

CCSS.RI.3.1

CCSS.RL.1.1

CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.3.1

Front

What is one benefit of Bt corn?

Back

One benefit of Bt corn is that it can reduce the need for chemical insecticides.

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What is a potential risk of GM foods?

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A potential risk is that they may have unknown long-term effects on health and the environment.

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What does it mean for a food to be tested?

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Testing food means conducting experiments and studies to check for safety, quality, and nutritional value.

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CCSS.RI.3.3

CCSS.RI.4.3

CCSS.RI.4.5

CCSS.RI.5.3

CCSS.RI.5.5