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Discussion QuestionsDiscussion Questions

GenomicsThe study of genes and their functions is helping biologists find many answers. But, it also raises all sorts of fascinating questions! Below, you'll find questions about just a few of the intriguing topics and debates raised by plant genomics. For the best possible discussion, be sure to check out the background video or link next to each one.

Applying the Genetic CodePlay the video

Applying the Genetic Code

How would sequencingA laboratory technique for recording the exact order of nucleotides within a section of DNA a plant’s genetic code be helpful to scientists?

Watch the video for a few ideas.

MutationsPlay the video

Mutations

How might a plant’s genetic mutations be important to its survival?

Watch the video to learn about mutations.

What We Breed

What We Breed

Can you think of plants and animals that humans have bred for certain qualities?

Learn about a few ways these qualities are bred.

The Size of a GenomePlay the video

The Size of a Genome

How big are some other genomes in the plant and animal kingdoms? How long do you think it would take to account for every nucleotideThe basic unit of DNA and RNA. It consists of one chemical base, a phosphate group, and a sugar molecule. Adenine, guanine, thymine, and cytosine are nucleotides. in a genome?

Find out why genomes don't come in one size. And, watch the video to learn just how much information is in a genome.
Importance of SequencingPlay the video

Importance of Sequencing

Why do some scientists feel that the genetic sequencingA laboratory technique for recording the exact order of nucleotides within a section of DNA of many different organisms are among the most important breakthroughs in human history? Do you agree?

Watch the video to learn more about the new field of bioinformaticsA relatively new field of science that combines biology with computer science. Bioinformaticists sift through vast quantities of genome data to find genes and determine their function..

Wild Potatoes

Wild Potatoes

Why is it impossible to cross a wild Mexican potato with a domestic potato through traditional breedingThe breeding of animals or plants for desirable traits or characteristics?

The key can be found in this article about GM foods. 

GMO

GMO

What is involved in genetically engineering a food product? What is the purpose?

Learn more about GM Foods. 

Harmful GM?

Harmful GM?

Have any GM foods been found to be harmful in any way? Would you eat food that has been genetically modified? Why or why not?

Learn more about GM Foods.

Bt Corn

Bt Corn

Do you think that Bt corn, a plant that produces its own pesticide, is a good thing for the environment? Why or why not?

Check out this USDA definition of Bt-Corn and a description of Bt-Corn from the University of Kentucky.  

Relieving Hunger

Relieving Hunger

Do you think we should go ahead with genetically modifying crops in order to relieve world hunger even if some researchers feel we don’t know enough about it yet?

Read about the Golden Rice Project to learn how some researchers think GM Foods can be used to combat hunger. 

Terminator Seeds

Terminator Seeds

Usually, farmers must purchase new seeds for genetically modified crops every year, instead of saving seeds from each harvest for replanting. Do you think biotech companies have the right to charge farmers for new seeds every year?

Read from a collection of BBC articles about these so-called "terminator seeds" —seeds that produce infertile plants.