Should extinct animals be cloned?
A WebQuest for Career: Molecular Paleontologist
Introduction
Research in genetics is an exciting field of study that offers many possibilities for a better
world. Some researchers are engaging in attempts to clone extinct species. A molecular
paleontologist studies the history of life at the molecular level. Some molecular
paleontologists are trying to clone a mammoth. Other molecular biologists are attempting
to clone animals that are more recently extinct. There are many issues surrounding
cloning extinct species.
Task
In this WebQuest, you will research biodiversity and issues surrounding extinction and
the cloning of extinct species. Based on the information you gather, you will form an
opinion about and write a persuasive essay for or against this scientific endeavor.
Process
Keep the following questions in mind as you begin your research. As your research
develops, record your answers to each of the questions. Document the sites used to find
the answers.
1. Why is biodiversity important?
2. What are the biggest causes of species becoming extinct today? What is the rate
of extinction today, and how does that compare to background extinction rates?
3. What are arguments against attempting to reinstate extinct species by cloning?
4. What are arguments for attempting to reinstate extinct species by cloning?
Persuasive Essay
Write a persuasive essay that gives an argument for or against cloning extinct species.
Include reasons for your position and reasons you don’t think the other position is valid.
Your essay should have opening and closing paragraphs. Use correct grammar and
punctuation.
Resources
Be sure to think critically about the Web sites you encounter as you search for
information for this project. There are many sites that provide useful information about
cloning and extinction. Verify that the information you find is accurate by checking other
Web sites.
Evaluation
Criteria
0
5
Points
10
Process
questions
The process Process
were
questions
questions
answered
were not
were
with only
answered;
answered
Process
minor details
no research only partially;
missing;
was
research was
research was
documented. incomplete.
documented
and reliable.
Essay was
very sloppy
Essay was
and used
reasonably
incorrect
neat with few
No essay
grammar and grammar or
Essay
punctuation
(construction) was written. punctuation.
Opening or
errors. All
closing
elements are
paragraph
present.
was missing.
Essay
(content)
Total Score
No essay
was written.
Essay had
missing or
incorrect
information.
No good
argument was
made.
Essay had
much valid
information,
but argument
was weak and
unconvincing.
15
Process
questions
answered
completely;
research
completely
documented
and reliable.
Essay was
neat with no
grammar or
punctuation
errors. All
elements are
present and
well-written.
Essay
contained
plenty of
valid
information
and a
convincing
argument.