Year 10 Science Name: __________________

Genetics and Evolution Research Task

Should we modify genetic material?

The increasing uses and applications of genetics knowledge in society provide benefits for both individuals
and populations, and raise social, economic, legal and ethical questions.
Your task is to write an essay on the implications of using genetic technology to solve problems.
Your essay can consider this question from a variety of perspectives. Choose from the three listed below.

Modification of organisms to:

1. Eradicate genetic illness
2. Improve food production
3. Introduce new traits or to select for favourable traits

Suggested structure
The introduction of your essay should explain current techniques and applications with appropriate
referencing. The main body of your essay should then discuss and evaluate the implications of the
modifications you explored.

Key MYP command terms

Explain− Give a detailed account including reasons and causes.
Discuss− Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses.
Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Evaluate− Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
Include a bibliography. Word length; 600-800 words.

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Year 10 Science

Guidance

Introduction

• Explain the science clearly and in your own words.

• Define key terms.
• Use examples to clarify your explanations.
• If diagrams are used, make sure they are annotated to clarify your explanations.
• If you cut and paste pictures, cite these.

Evaluation

• Consider the issues that result from the use and application of science.
• Consider who/what is affected - individuals, families, the wider community and/ or the environment.
• Consider how they are affected. What are the advantages? What are the disadvantages?
• Consider at least two implications, weighing up advantages and disadvantages and decide what you
think.

Social Interaction between groups of people involving issues such as welfare, safety, rights,
justice or class
Political Relates to government or public affairs
Ethical/Moral Process of rational inquiry to decide on issues as right or wrong, as applied to the people
and their actions/ Principles of right or wrong behaviour derived from a particular society
Environmental Circumstances, objects or conditions by which one is surrounded
Economic Production, distribution and use of income, wealth and commodities
Cultural Patterns of knowledge, behaviour, beliefs, shared attitudes, values, goals and practices
that characterise groups of people