Are We Ready For Genetic Engineering?

By Donald Leopardi

Introduction | The Task | Process and Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Introduction

Genetic Engineering is a very large area of controversy.  It ranges from the development of new produce to the cloning of old organisms.  It has become one of the fastest growing forms of biotechnology in society today.  Is it worth it?  Well some say it is, while others have to disagree.  WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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The Task

At the end of this project, you will be able to discuss one of the many areas that are covered  under the topic of Genetic Engineering.  You will be able to present information regarding the  topic and show either the arguments for it or those that oppose it.  Finally, you will make a stand for what you believe is a valid point, based on evidence of research.

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Process and Resources

  1. First you will be assigned to a group of two students
  2. You will then choose one of the following topics from the table below ( make sure you check with your teacher before beginning the assignment.  No more than two groups can have the same topic.)
  3. When the topic is chosen, you and your partner will be asked to research the topic and complete some questions that pertain to the research.
  4. For some general background information that pertains to genetic engineering, the following sites may be used:
  5. After you get an idea of the broad range of topics that are covered by Genetic Engineering, go to the chart below and click on the topic that you have chosen.  This will bring you to the page that contains all the questions and the assignment that you will complete.
  6. Agricultural Genetic Disorders Improving Human Life
    Economic Value Cloning Animals Cloning Humans
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Evaluation

Each group will be responsible for the research and PowerPoint presentation for their argument.  They will be graded on the following Rubric in each of the two areas: Research, Presentation(both Oral and PowerPoint).  

Evaluation Rubric for Research & Presentation
Outstanding Acceptable Developing Beginning
Clearly
describes the
central
question,
develops a
thoughtful
solution, and
suggests
possible
consequences
associated
with the
solution.		 Clearly
describes a
central
question,
develops a
thoughtful
solution.		 Describes a
central
question and
develops a
solution. 		 Does not
describe a 
central
question, or
develop a
solution.
Uses specific
evidence from
student
research to
support
suggested
solution and
uses this
evidence to
generate
consequences
associated
with the
solution.		 Uses specific
evidence from
student
research to
support
suggested
solution.		 Uses limited
evidence from
student
research to
support
suggested
solution. 		 Does not
include any
evidence from
the research
to support
ideas.
Solid work
that
demonstrates
careful
attention to
details. Few
errors.		 Solid work
that
demonstrates
attention to
details.
several
errors. 		 Does not
demonstrate
attention to
details. Many
errors.		 Does not
demonstrate
attention to
details. Many
errors. Very
brief.

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Conclusion

Genetic Engineering is one of the most controversial new scientific discovery of our time.  With increasing technological advances, it will only progress to a higher and higher level.  Are we as humans, ready for the endless possibilities of this new level?  It is time for you to take a stand and voice your opinion on this and other topics that will affect you and your future. 

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Created by Don Leopardi

Mineola School District

9th grade: The Living Environment Course

In conjunction with Standard 4, Performance Indicator 2.2 of the new Living Environment Curriculum

Created on 10/25/00