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DETECTIVES IN THE CLASSROOM
  Module 1                 
 
  Module 2
 
  Module 3
Investigation 3-1
 
  Module 4
 
  Module 5

Investigation 3-1
In the News

Synopsis

Students interpret headlines and reports of epidemiological studies that have appeared in the popular press and uncover the tendency to interpret phrases, such as "linked with," "tied to," "related to," and "associated with," as being synonymous with cause.  Students read an article about a mother who believes a drug for treating acne caused her son to commit suicide and begin to appreciate the fundamental distinction between an association and a cause and that associations are not necessarily causal.


Investigation Preparation Checklist

Check alignment with standards.

National or State file

Review Epidemiology Background for Module 3.

Word or PDF file

Review teacher's notes and slides:  [en espaņol:]

  
 
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    PowerPoint file: 2,877KB

    Copy Epi Talk handout for each student.

    Word or PDF file

    Copy article, "Mother of Teenage Suicide Pilot Sues Maker of Acne Drug She Says He Used," for each student and assign to be read prior to the next class.

    Word or PDF file

    Copy Investigation 3-1: Epi Log Worksheet for each student.  [en espaņol:]

    Word or PDF file


    Estimated Time / Time Management

    Approximately one class period.


    Look For Students To:

    Identify a variety of things that "turn up together."

    Define "association" and "cause" and explain the difference.

    Using examples, explain why associations are not necessarily causal.