Science Creative Nonfiction Book Study: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Learn about the many contributions of Henrietta Lacks through Rebecca Skloot's popular book.
Ms Kelsey
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(47)
What's included
9 live meetings
6 hrs 45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
** Class minimum has been met! The course is guaranteed to run! ** In this course, students will read the Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. In celebration of the various contributions of women in the sciences, we will discuss the role Henrietta played in improving our understanding of cells and cancer treatments. This book will allow for the discussion of the ethical treatment of women and minorities throughout history. During our 9 meeting periods, students will have the opportunity to reflect upon the reading and engage in a discussion regarding the various topics. We'll explore several topics in more depth in the class meetings including cell progression to cancer, cancer treatment, and vaccine development. August 9: Meeting 1: Introduction to the book/ background information August 11: Meeting 2: Chapters 1-7 August 13: Meeting 3: Chapters 8-11 August 16: Meeting 4: Chapters 12-17 August 18: Meeting 5: Chapters 18-22 August 20: Meeting 6: Chapters 23-28 August 23: Meeting 7: Chapters 29-32 August 25: Meeting 8: Chapter 33-37 August 26: Meeting 9: Book reflection/ time to discuss any concerns or topics raised while reading the book I have shared this book with over 100 students- all of whom enjoyed the novel greatly. With a degree in biology, I am knowledgeable in the scientific topics discussed in this book. All students enrolled in the class must have a copy of Rebecca Skloot's book "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks." The book can be found at local booksellers or on Amazon for approximately $10.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks discusses the history of medical treatment for African Americans and the role of Johns Hopkins in serving the poor community in Baltimore. For some students, this may highlight potential racial inequalities at the time with regards to medical care. In discussing Henrietta's life, students learn about Henrietta's education in the south during the 1950s.
Supply List
Students are required to have a copy of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. Copies are available on Amazon for approximately $10.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have taught this course to several groups of high school students and am comfortable addressing the topics raised in the book. With a background in microbiology, I can confidently address any cell-related and medical questions raised in this book.
Throughout my career, I have worked with marginalized groups. For this course, will learn about Henrietta's care during her treatment at Hopkins through Rebecca Skloot's writing. The focus during our class time will primarily be focused on her contributions to science.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$125
for 9 classes3x per week, 3 weeks
45 min
Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
2-9 learners per class
