Pray Ann Russel Realubit
Bsn-2C
🔍 Objective:
To explore the benefits, risks, and societal impact of genetically modified organisms in agriculture,
medicine, and the environment.
📝 Instructions:
Answer the following questions based on your research or readings. You may use books, journals, or
reliable internet sources.
1. What is a genetically modified organism (GMO)?
A GMO is an organism whose genetic material (DNA) has been altered using genetic engineering
techniques. This allows scientists to introduce specific traits or modify existing ones.
2. Name two common examples of GMOs used in agriculture.
- Soybeans: Many soybeans are genetically modified to be resistant to herbicides, allowing farmers
to use less chemical weed control.
- Corn: GMO corn is commonly engineered to be pest-resistant, reducing the need for pesticides.
3. How are GMOs created (basic steps of genetic engineering)?
The process of creating GMOs involves several steps:
1. - Gene Identification: Identify the desired gene that controls a specific trait.
2. - Gene Isolation: Extract the identified gene from its original source.
3. - Gene Insertion: Introduce the gene into the host organism's DNA, using a vector such as a virus
or bacteria.
4. - Transformation: The host organism integrates the new gene into its genome.
5. - Selection: Identify and select the transformed organisms that exhibit the desired trait.
4. List three benefits of using GMOs in food production.
- Increased Crop Yield: GMO crops can produce higher yields, contributing to food security.
- Improved Nutritional Value: Some GMOs are engineered to have increased nutritional value, for
example, higher vitamin content.
- Reduced Pesticide Use: Pest-resistant GMOs can decrease the reliance on chemical pesticides,
benefiting the environment.
5. Identify two potential health or environmental risks associated with GMOs.
- Unforeseen Health Effects: Long-term health effects of consuming GMOs are still being
investigated, and potential risks include allergic reactions or antibiotic resistance.
- Environmental Impacts: The widespread use of GMOs could lead to unintended consequences, such
as the development of herbicide-resistant weeds or the disruption of biodiversity.
6. Do you think foods that contain GMOs should be labeled? Why or why not?
Yes, foods containing GMOs should be labeled. This allows consumers to make informed choices based
on their personal preferences and values, regardless of the scientific consensus on GMO safety.
Transparency in food labeling fosters trust and empowers consumers to participate in the food system.
7. What role does the government play in regulating the use of GMOs in your country?
In the United States, three federal agencies the FDA, EPA, and USDA collaborate to regulate GMOs.
The FDA focuses on food safety, the EPA on environmental impacts (particularly pesticides), and the
USDA on plant health and the prevention of invasive species. This regulatory framework aims to
ensure that GMOs are safe for human and animal consumption, and that their use doesn’t negatively
impact the environment.
8. In your opinion, should GMOs be encouraged or limited in society? Support your answer with at
least two reasons.
GMOs should be encouraged. First, they offer the potential to increase crop yields and enhance
nutritional value, contributing to global food security. Second, GMOs can reduce the need for
pesticides and herbicides, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural
system.
📚 References: Cite the source you used in answering the questions.
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Homework Scoring Rubric: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) (Total: 25 Points)
Needs
Criteria Excellent (5) Good (4) Satisfactory (3) Score
Improvement (2)
Provides a
Provides a clear
thorough and
explanation of Explanation of Explanation is
accurate
Understanding GMOs with GMOs is mostly unclear or
explanation of /5
of GMO appropriate correct but lacks incomplete; lacks
GMOs with clear
examples and detail or clarity. key information.
examples and
steps.
detailed steps.
Clearly lists at least
Lists at least two Lists one benefit
three benefits and Very few or no
Benefits and benefits and one and one risk but
two risks of GMOs benefits/risks listed; /5
Risks risk, with some lacks examples or
with specific lacks examples.
examples. depth.
examples.
Insightful and well-
Addresses some
argued discussion Mentions Minimal or no
ethical/social
Ethical/Social on ethical/social ethical/social discussion on
issues with /5
Issues issues, providing issues but lacks ethical/social
reasonable
balanced depth in analysis. issues.
analysis.
viewpoints.
Thoughtful
Provides
reflection with Reflection is Reflection is
reflection with
Critical Thinking strong, well- somewhat unclear underdeveloped or
good reasoning /5
& Reflection supported or lacks support absent; lacks clear
and some support
arguments; clear for the opinion. reasoning.
for the argument.
position taken.
Some
Well-organized, Organized and Disorganized,
organizational
Clarity and clear, and logically mostly clear with difficult to
issues; clarity or /5
Organization presented answers; few errors in understand, or filled
writing errors may
free of errors. presentation. with errors.
be present.