The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) invites you to participate in the 5th Annual DNA Day Essay Contest! It is only open to 9th 12th grade students this year.
Submission Deadline: March 15, 2010 at 5:00 PM EST
Please visit http://www.ashg.org/education/dnaday.shtml for details.
2010 Essay questions:
Option 1 Scientists can now determine the complete DNA sequences of organisms, including humans. Now that this milestone has been reached, is there a reason to continue learning about Mendel, alleles, and inheritance patterns? Explain your answer.
Option 2 Genetic testing allows geneticists to determine an individuals DNA sequence, and research has identified a number of genes, such as HMGA2 and GDF5, that are associated with height. Will such associations allow scientists and physicians to predict a persons final adult height from infancy? Explain your answer.
A 1st, 2nd, 3rd place will be chosen for each question. Winning students will receive:
1st Place Winners: $400.00 + Teacher receive a $2,000 grant for laboratory genetics equipment
2nd Place Winners: $250.00
3rd Place Winners: $150.00
Please expect an email in January 2010 when the submission site is live. Questions? Please email Angie Wong).