RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT PAGE 
Here is your research assignment page.
GENETICS RESEARCH (Biology - Mr. Pellegrino)
Name:_______________________________ Biology
Genetics Research
INTRODUCTION: The topic of genetic disease is a fascinating one. The how's, why's, and
wherefores of inheritance and what happens when things go wrong has held scientists'
curiosity for many generations. Equally interesting is the question concerning heredity
vs. environment, or nature vs. nurture. Which is more important, the genes you inherit or
the environment you are raised in? Again, this debate has enthused scientists for a great
many years. The purpose of this assignment will be for you to do research about topics in
genetics that interest you, then devise a creative and dynamic presentation concerning
your findings.
METHOD:
1. You will work with a partner. You and your partner will do
either A or B depending on which one sounds more interesting to you.
A. The Study of
Genetic Disease
1. Use
the various research materials available to you to choose a genetic disease or malady.
After you have chosen, begin your research, focusing on answering the following questions:
a)
What is the mode of inheritance for the disease?
b) What
are the symptoms of the disease?
c) What
percentage of the population is affected the disease?
d) What
is the actual molecular basis for the cause of the disease? (Is it a missing enzyme?
Something else?
e) What
type of treatments are there for the disease?
f) Is
there a cure for the disease?
g) How
may this disease be treated in the future?
h) Is
there a pre-screening test available for the disease? If so, what is it?
i) If
you were a doctor, and a pre-screening test was available, how would you counsel parents
who are carrying a fetus afflicted with the disease?
2. After you have amassed this information, begin to design your
presentation. Create a visual aid to make it as lively and interesting as possible.
B. Nature vs.
Nurture
1. Use
the available research materials to pick a trait that is inherited and is also affected by
a person's environment. (Examples include, but are not limited to height, intelligence,
and mental illness) After you have chosen the trait, begin your research in order to
answer the following questions:
a) What
is the mode of inheritance for your trait?
b) What
are the various phenotypes displayed by individuals with this trait?
c) What
is the molecular basis for the inheritance of this trait?
d) What
environmental factors contribute to the phenotypes that are expressed?
2. After
you have collected your materials it is up to you to make a decision concerning the trait.
Is the genetic contribution more important or are the environmental factors?
3. Your
presentation should focus on your decision and should be done in such a way as to persuade
your audience to agree with your opinion. Create a visual aid that will enhance your work
as much as possible. Be creative.
pellegri\genet.apb
  
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