Introduction:
During our genetics unit, we have discussed many aspects of how genetics works. In this assignment, you will be researching genetics topics and the technologies that are not only controversial, but must be studied to understand the ethical and social implications they will have on human kind. Being aware and trying to understand what is out there will make you a more educated citizen that can make informed, rational decisions about how you will let these technologies affect you during your lifetime.
PAPER GUIDELINES:
q
You
will write a persuasive paper that discusses a required three pros and
three cons (positive and negative aspects) of your topic. A solid argument lays out both sides, using factual
data that you will have researched to both support and refute the
topic.
q
Minimum
of four full pages, typed, double-spaced (Do not use headings or spacing
between paragraphs to take up space!).
You are only allowed to use Times New Roman with size 12 font. Top and bottom margins must be the standard
1 inch (normal settings) and the left and right margins must be the standard
1.25 inch (normal settings).
q
Write
in paragraph format, with logical transitions between them. Grammar, spelling, and sentence structure
will count. However, sentence fluency
and voice will hold more weight than grammar.
q
A
good researcher will not limit themselves to the minimum three pros and three
cons. Well-researched material leads to
an “A” paper. A good researcher knows
that by gathering as much information as possible, the writing process is made
easier because they can pick and choose from the best information. By using
this approach, you should have little problem writing four pages of worthy
information.
q
You
will need to research and read at least 5 different sources. One of these must be a news media source and
another must be a magazine article. You must turn in a photocopy of the
magazine article.
q
Researched
facts must be written in your own words.
If you plagiarize, you will
lose all credit. You do
not have to cite sources directly in your paper. You are, however, required to use MLA format to cite each fact on
the provided research worksheet. See (Research)
q
Do
not include beliefs, since beliefs are not based on facts and thus can not be
scientifically argued as fact. Also,
you must be aware that because everyone’s opinion is different, if you strictly
base your argument on your opinion without any factual data, then your argument
is like Swiss cheese: filled with holes and melts away under fire.
q
The
format for your paper is outlined for you in the Paper Format section.
RESEARCH: All research will be hand written on the research worksheet given you and will be turned in along with your finished paper. Remember, when researching only write important bits of information. Research should be thorough, yet written concisely as to conserve space and time. The information to be researched is found in the next section. (If extra space is required, handwrite extra information on a separate sheet of paper using heading and source citations, so I may easily read through and understand your research.)
PAPER FORMAT: The information below lists and describes the order in which your information will be written, as well as the information that must be included in your paper.
Title Page – Center on page the following: topic title, your name, teacher’s name, class period, date
Do not put a title or
heading on first page of your report.
Start one inch down with your first paragraph. No spacing between paragraphs. See (Paper Guidelines)
Introduction -- Introduce topic in an interesting way to grab the attention of your audience. Why should your audience care? Why do you care? Make it convincing and non-confrontational. Remember that your purpose is to persuade.
Description/Definition -- Provide an explanation and/or descripption of what your topic is, and/ or what is involved so that others know exactly what your subject matter deals with.(~1/2 page)
Background/History – Give an overview of how your topic has changed throughout the years. When possible, include how it started, who was involved in the major advances, what major advances have occurred, etc. Some topics will have more background than others. (~1 to 1and 1/2 pages)
Thesis or Claim -- State or present your claim so that iit exposes a clearly debatable idea. You can not argue a thesis that does not have some type of controversial aspects. Ask yourself if there is enough controversy stirred up by your thesis /claim statement. Outline or map out your argument for your audience. (1 paragraph)
Argument and Refutation – This can be done using different styles: (~2 to 3 pages)
You must clearly present three positive aspects, discussing each in terms of usefulness and helpfulness. You must also clearly present three negatives, discussing each in terms of what the use is and how it can be harmful. Each positive and negative (Pro and Con) must be backed up using your researched factual data as evidence.
***Depending on your viewpoint,
you may choose to argue against the topic, and in this case, your Thesis and
Argument and Refutation Sections must reflect that you are against the topic
and you must still clearly argue both sides, slanting to whichever side you are
supporting.
Here are some options as to how to best
present your argument:
Style 1: (using
several paragraphs)
q Make your arguments giving evidence of fact to back it up. Start off with your weakest and end with your strongest points.
q Discuss the opposing arguments giving evidence of fact that could be used to counterargue your points. You must then show how these counterarguments are faulty or how they do not outweigh your arguments.
Style 2: (using
several paragraphs)
q Refute opposing arguments
q Present your arguments
Style 3: (using
several paragraphs)
q Refute first con that matches your first pro.
q Refute your second con that matches your second pro.
q
Etc. Continue for as many arguments you have. Treat arguments without matching opposition
in separate paragraphs.
Conclusion
– Summarize your arguments by tying this into your introduction or
description/background. You may want to
discuss a solution, compromise, or direction in which the reader is left to
consider. (1/2 page)