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High School

DISEASE AND VACCINATION (UNIT 2)
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Lesson 4

Vaccine History and Research

Students explore the history of vaccine research and ethical considerations related to vaccine research. Students read a historical account of vaccine research to develop their understanding of science as a process of testing ideas, exploration and discovery that results in benefits for society. To conclude this lesson, students read about development of the hepatitis B vaccine and consider ethical questions related to development of two versions of the vaccine through a class discussion and individual writing assignment.

Lesson Questions

  • What are the key discoveries in the history of vaccine research?
  • Who are the leading scientists in the history of vaccine research?
  • What are the main ethical considerations of vaccine research?