HEADS UP
The Immune System & Infectious Diseases

Just Another Day at the BSL4

Video Worksheet

Running Time: Part 1: 9.5 minutes Part 2: 5.5 minutes

TEKS: Middle School Science:

7.1, 7.2, 7.3 C-E, 7.4B, 7.9 A-B, 7.10 B, 7.11 A, 7.12 B-C

8.1, 8.2, 8.3 D-E, 8.4B, 8.5

Middle School Health: 6.3 A, 7.3A-C, 8.3A-C, 7.12A-B, 8.12A-B

High SchoolBiology: 1A, 2A, C-D, 4C-D, 10A

High School IPC:1A, 2A, C-D

Objective

Excite students about cutting-edge research and scientific careers by:

  • explaining what biological agent research is all about and why it's needed
  • explaining what a Biosafety Level 4 lab is and why these types of facilities are needed
  • ease concerns regarding biological agent research conducted in local communities
  • highlight the work and researchersof the Western Regional Center for Excellence in Biodefense Research (WRCE) at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston

Overview

Continuing coverage of their story from Units 1 and 2, student reporter, Alex Rodriguez and videographer Sydnee, wrap up their story after visiting the WRCE in Galveston.

Materials Needed

  • DVD player/computer drive or VCR (if using VHS version)
  • Copies of worksheet for each student
  • Pens or pencils

Procedure

  1. Introduce the video and distribute worksheets, pens/pencils.
  1. Play the video and ask students to complete the worksheet as they watch the video.
  1. Briefly review the concepts of the video and go over the correct answers to the worksheet.

Just Another Day at the BSL4

Video Worksheet

Answer the following questions about the Just Another Day at the BSL4 video.

  1. Bacteria and viruses that are capable of causing disease in animals or

humans are called ______.

  1. What is the difference between germ warfare and biodefense research?

3. What does WRCE stand for?

  1. Where is the WRCE located?
  1. What is the function of the WRCE?
  1. What kind of microbes are found at the BSL4?
  1. How can the BSL4 lab be a safe environment for researchers?
  1. What would your day be like if you worked in a BSL4 lab?

Just Another Day at the BSL4

Video Worksheet

Answer Key

  1. pathogenic
  1. Germ warfare is when someone, like a bioterrorist, uses a bacteria or virus to make people sick (anthrax attack).

Bio defense research is people who come up with methods to detect the pathogens bioterrorists could use. They are working on ways to protect and treat those who are exposed to the pathogens.

  1. WRCE stands for Western Regional Center for Excellence in Biodefense

research.

  1. The WRCE is located in Galveston, Texas on the University of Texas Medical Branch campus.
  1. The WRCE’s function is to diagnose and treat dangerous infectious diseases in humans.
  1. Very dangerous microbes are found in the BSL4.
  1. The air pressure is lower in the BSL4to help contain microbes that are very dangerous and help the researchers work safely with the different viruses. There are four levels of labs ranging from the lowest risk labs (BSL1) to the highest (BSL4). The higher level lab researchers are required to take more precautions, such as wearing more protective outer gear,working in a vaulted atmosphere and following more security measures. Researchers are decontaminated before they exit the lab.
  1. Answers may vary.

HEADS UP The Immune System & Infectious Diseases © 2008 University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston