Year 9 Science · Unit 1 · Lesson 8
Challenge Worksheet
Learning Goals
Evaluate the claim
Someone claims...
"mRNA vaccines are dangerous because mRNA goes into the cell nucleus, where it can permanently change your DNA. This means COVID-19 mRNA vaccines like Pfizer could alter your genetic code and cause long-term unknown effects. That is why I do not trust them, no one knows what permanent changes they make to your genes."
(a) What part of this claim, if any, is supported by scientific evidence? Be precise, identify the kernel of truth (if any) before identifying errors.
(b) What is scientifically incorrect or misleading in this claim? Use your knowledge of how mRNA, the cell nucleus, and DNA interact to explain why the claim's central argument is wrong.
(c) What evidence or additional information would a scientist need to verify whether a vaccine caused a long-term genetic change? Describe at least two types of scientific evidence that would be relevant.
1. A friend reads about the mRNA vaccine claim above and says: "Even if the science is wrong, it is good to be cautious about new things." Evaluate this reasoning. When is scientific caution justified, and when does it become a barrier to public health? Use evidence from the lesson in your answer.
2. Compare how an mRNA vaccine and a live-attenuated vaccine (like the MMR) each create immunity. What are the key similarities (in terms of outcome) and key differences (in terms of mechanism and safety considerations)?
Wrap Up
In one sentence, explain why mRNA vaccines cannot change a person's DNA.