Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Genetic engineering” ESL Discussion Questions

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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?