Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Genetic engineering” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Introduction to Genetic Engineering

1. What are the advantages of genetic engineering?
2. How can we use genetic engineering to solve problems in our world today?
3. What is the difference between genetic engineering and cloning?
4. Do GMOs reduce pesticide use on crops?
5. What are the disadvantages of genetic engineering?

II. Risks and Ethics of Genetic Engineering

6. What are the risks of genetic engineering?
7. How does genetic engineering work?
8. What are some of the risks of genetic engineering?
9. How do you get genetically modified organisms from the lab to a farm, or the grocery store?
10. What are some of the benefits of genetic engineering?

III. Genetic Engineering in Medicine

11. What does gene therapy mean for you and your family?
12. Why do people use genetic engineering?
13. What are some of the risks involved with using genetic engineering in our food supply?
14. What is a gene?
15. Is genetic engineering more like creating a new species or like improving an existing one?

IV. Understanding Genetic Concepts

16. What is genetic engineering?
17. What is the difference between DNA and RNA?
18. Do you think it is ethical to genetically engineer animals?
19. Do you think that genetically modified foods should be labeled as such? Why or why not?
20. Will GMOs help us feed a growing population without destroying the environment?

V. Applications of Genetic Engineering

21. How is genetic engineering used in plants and animals?
22. Do you think that everyone should have their genome sequenced at birth? Why or why not?
23. What are some examples of genetically modified crops and animals?
24. Who can perform genetic engineering?
25. Can you genetically engineer a human?

VI. Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering

26. What are some of the ethical issues associated with genetic engineering?
27. How does DNA code for traits and characteristics?
28. How do scientists create new genes?
29. How can genetic engineering be used to reduce the amount of pollution in our environment?
30. What is gene therapy and how does it work?

VII. Public Perception and Controversy

31. Why is there a lot of controversy about genetic engineering?
32. Do you think it is ethical to genetically engineer humans?
33. Can you genetically engineer a tree that will be resistant to fire?
34. How do people feel about genetic engineering in their food?
35. What role does media play in shaping opinions about genetic engineering?

VIII. Future of Genetic Engineering

36. What advancements do you think we will see in genetic engineering in the next 10 years?
37. How might genetic engineering change the way we approach healthcare?
38. What potential do you see for genetic engineering in agriculture?
39. How can genetic engineering help in the fight against climate change?
40. What do you think is the most exciting possibility of genetic engineering?

IX. Genetic Engineering and Society

41. How does genetic engineering affect food security?
42. What impact does genetic engineering have on biodiversity?
43. How can we ensure that genetic engineering is used responsibly?
44. What role should governments play in regulating genetic engineering?
45. How can public opinion shape the future of genetic engineering?

X. Genetic Engineering in Education

46. How should genetic engineering be taught in schools?
47. What resources are available for learning about genetic engineering?
48. How can students get involved in genetic engineering research?
49. What skills are important for a career in genetic engineering?
50. How can we encourage more students to pursue careers in genetic engineering?

XI. Genetic Engineering and Personal Choices

51. How do personal beliefs affect opinions on genetic engineering?
52. Would you choose to have genetic modifications for yourself or your children?
53. How do cultural views influence genetic engineering practices?
54. What factors would you consider before accepting genetic modifications?
55. How do you think society will change with more genetic engineering?

XII. Conclusion and Future Perspectives

56. What do you think is the future of genetic engineering?
57. How can we balance innovation and ethics in genetic engineering?
58. What role will technology play in the future of genetic engineering?
59. How can we ensure that genetic engineering benefits everyone?
60. What message would you like to share about genetic engineering?
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