Possible Topics:
1) the importance of a balanced diet.
Must discuss/include the following but is not limited to:
* At the cellular level, how and where carbohydrates, lipids and proteins are used in the human body (which organelles need them)
* How carbs, lipids, and proteins are broken down in the body
* Why the body needs all three
2) whether genetics should be used to improve humans.
Must discuss/include the following:
* Explain recombinant DNA technology
* Explain the benefits of genetic engineering to the field of medicine
* Under what circumstances should doctors be allowed to change the
genes of patients? Support your opinion with facts.
* Should genetic engineering be used to improve the human species?
Support your answer.
3) "Genetic engineering may improve the harvest for farmers but what impact does it have on our health?"
*Explain how genetic engineering is used to improve crops and cite examples.
*Research further into its impact on society. Who decides if the food is safe? What rights do consumers have? What rights do farmers have to grow GM food?
*State the pros and cons, take a position and defend it.
4) "Should doctors predict genetic disorders of an unborn child?"
*Discuss the difference between dominant and recessive genetic disorders. *Research its impact on potential parents
*State the pros and cons, take a position and defend it.
5) Gene therapy: What are the potential ramifications of somatic and germ- line gene therapy?
*Discuss 2 types of gene therapy.
*Should genes be tinkered with, and if so, what kind of limits should be placed on this type of technology? Defend your position with research.
6) Human Genome Project: Should employers be able to screen potential employees for specific genetic conditions?
*What is the Human Genome Project? Describe its goal.
*Who should have access to an individual's genetic makeup? Family members, insurance agencies, lawyers?
*What type of abuse or misuse of genetic information do biologists fear?
*What should genetic information be used for? Suggest measures that might be taken to limit access to this information.
Essay must follow this format -
1st paragraph: Introduction and thesis statement with three points to be discussed.
2nd, 3rd, 4th paragraphs: Discuss your 1st, 2nd and 3rd points in your thesis statement providing support from your research.
5th paragraph: Concluding paragraph and restatement of thesis.
Other Requirements:
1. Works Cited with three references, minimum. MLA format
2. Proper grammar and spelling.
3. 2 full pages of text (minimum), double spaced. (does not include title page)
4. 12 point font (maximum), with 1 inch margins. (I will measure them so you
should too)
5. Title page with title, your name, date submitted and class period (centered on page).
***If the above is met, this paper will add an additional 2% to your quarter grade.
1st quarter extra credit is due October 26, 2007
2nd quarter extra credit is due January 4, 2008
3rd quarter extra credit is due March 31, 2008
4th quarter extra credit is due May 30, 2008