When Jabberjays Attack!

Read this New York Times article by author James Gorman which will introduce you to the idea of DIY biology. After reading it proceed with the activities below.
If you receive the message that you’ve reached the maximum number of free articles when you click on the link for New York Times article, go to a search engine (ex. Google, Bing) and type in D.I.Y. Biology, on the Wings of the Mockingjay. The article should be the first one that comes up, and when you click on it, it should let you read it. If it doesn’t work with Google, try Bing. It still will say something about subscribing, but you should be able to minimize it and still read it. If you are still unable to view it, please email me at jpatterson@netc.edu.
Part 1: Using your understanding of DNA technology and evolution, summarize changes that would need to take place in order to create organisms such as the Jabberjay and mockingjay.
Part 2: Conduct further research into the idea of DIY biology and genetic engineering. Briefly summarize your findings and provide a specific bioengineering example. Cite references using MLA format.
Part 3: State your opinion of the DIYbio movement and whether you believe government regulation or publishing restrictions should be put into place. Why or why not? Provide specific evidence and a logical argument to support your opinion. Simply stating you ‘feel’ or ‘believe’ something is insufficient justification.
Your essay should be prepared and cited using MLA format. Submit your final work as a single document.
Use this document to find some helpful hints for completing this assignment.
Basic Requirements (the assignment will not be accepted or assessed unless the follow criteria have been met):
Assignment has been proofread and does not contain any major spelling or grammatical errors
Assignment includes appropriate references.
Assignment is formatted throughout using MLA style.
Rubric

When Jabberjays Attack!
Outcome: Explain the theory of evolution, which documents the change in the genetic makeup of a biological population over time. Describe and discuss techniques used in modern biology.
Criteria Ratings Pts
Jabberjay creation discussed referencing specific DNA technologies possibly used for their engineering. DNA technologies identified and discussed in detail that could have created jabberjays.
5.0 pts DNA technologies identified that could have created jabberjays.
4.0 pts Incorrect DNA technologies discussed or not sufficiently justified in discussion.
0.0 pts 5 pts
Jabberjay and mockingjay evolutionary relationships discussed in order to highlight the way that adaptations enhance the survival and reproduction of individuals in a population. Evolutionary relationship of jabberjays/mockingjays discussed correctly and in detail.
5.0 pts Evolutionary relationship of jabberjays/mockingjays discussed correctly.
4.0 pts Jabberjay/mockingjay relationship not logical or insufficiently discussed.
0.0 pts 5 pts
Discuss mockingjay survival as an example of natural selection. Natural selection discussion accurate and detailed.
5.0 pts Natural selection discussion accurate.
4.0 pts Natural selection discussion incorrect or illogical.
0.0 pts 5 pts
DIY biology and specific bioengineering example discussed in order to highlight societal use of biotechnology DIY biology and specific example used to highlight societal uses of biotechnology and potential scenarios provided illustrating pluses/minuses
5.0 pts DIY biology and specific example used to highlight societal uses of biotechnology
4.0 pts DIY biology and specific example not used to highlight societal uses of biotechnology
0.0 pts 5 pts
Paper includes personal opinion on gene engineering, supported by evidence beyond simple opinion, that discusses possible risks and benefits of the application genomic and genetic science. Personal opinion well supported by evidence, example, and/or scenarios.
5.0 pts Personal opinion supported by at least one full scenario or example.
4.0 pts Personal opinion not fully supported.
0.0 pts 5 pts

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