Touchpoint 1
Can genetic genealogy restore family narratives disrupted by the transatlantic slave trade?
What is it?
For African Americans enslaved, it’s hard to trace family history before 1870. This is when the U.S. started keeping census records. Slavery forced family separation which makes it even more challenging. Genetic genealogy may be able to uncover pre-slavery ancestors.
Potential message to students:
Do you think going back before 1870 is important to Americans? Do you think many non-slave descendants go back further? Would you participate? Do you think the black community would trust this project?
Touchpoint 2
Scientists identify mysterious new species that could revolutionize agriculture: ‘Something out of a James Cameron movie’
What is it?
We use a lot of toxic chemicals to grow and produce our fruits and vegetables. Some want to use animals that feed on insects instead. Scientists think they may have a new species of worm that can help crops avoid insects. The worm is half the width of a human hair.
Potential message to students:
Do you think there are more worms and other animals that can be used to protect crops? Do you always wash fruits and vegetables before you eat them? Do you think we will ever stop using pesticides?
Touchpoint 3
Coin-sized device can isolate plasma, replacing centrifuges
What is it?
Centrifuges spin at different speeds to separate components of a fluid. Centrifuges extract plasma from blood. Scientists think they have discovered a much cheaper way using a coin-sized chip that extracts the plasma in 30 minutes and can do it without the need for additional spin cycles in the centrifuge.
Potential message to students:
Centrifuges are the gold standard and have been around for a long time. Do you think today’s scientists should focus on these decades-old tools and see if they can be significantly improved in the 2020s?