Church Issues in the 21st Century: Stem Cells

What?

What is stem cell research?

What stance does the Catholic Church hold on stem cell research?

What is the importance of understanding why stem cell research should be done? What are it's pros and cons?

How does stem cell research implicate the Catholic Church's beliefs?

Who?

Students in Grades 6 or higher

Students who can understand the scientific process of the creation of life

Teachers need to be aware of moral implications of new science and the Church's stance.

When?

Can be used to make students think critically while covering parts of the Ontario Religion Curriculum

Grade 6 Living a Moral Life BL #2. Human beings have a responsiblity to form their conscience in accordance with Truth i.e. Jesus Christ, Word of God, Moral Law, through grace and the work of the Holy Spirit. The Church's Magisterium (i.e. Pope/Bishop) can assist us in developing an informed conscience in order to live a moral life.

Grade 6 Living in Solidarity LS #1: As members of Christ's Body, each of us has a responsibility to witness to Christ both in our individual lives and in society.

How?

Educating students on the Church's beliefs on the sacred human life

Using Pope and Catholic Church's beliefs on stem cell research as a discussion topic

Educating students on the difference between the multiple types of stem cell research and their implications

Students can conduct inquiry based learning by researching the benefits of stem cell research and its efficacy

Students will think critically and make an informed opinion on if they believe stem cell research is morally correct or not

A debate split between pro-stem cell research and against stem cell research

Where?