Passage One - Genetically Engineered Crops by Tony Esplanade
Passage Two - The facts about Genetic Engineering by Harriet Harrington
What is one common idea found in BOTH passage 1 and Passage 2?
A. Corn, soy, and cottonseed are almost all genetically engineered foods.
B. High-tech companies provide research on GE foods.
C. GE crops may spread outside of their fields.
D. People have been altering plants for thousands of years.
A. Corn, soy, and cottonseed are almost all genetically engineered foods.
Same passages
Which ONE source Most effectively argues FOR genetically engineered crops? Use at least TWO details from the appropriate text to support your response. Remember to clearly reference the text
Passage One - Genetically Engineered Crops by Tony Esplanade argues for genetically engineered crops. The author highlights the benefits of GE crops by stating, "Genetically engineered crops have the potential to increase crop yields, reduce the need for chemical pesticides, and improve nutritional content." This shows that the author believes GE crops can have positive effects on crop production and the environment. Additionally, the passage mentions that GE crops have been extensively studied and tested for safety, indicating that the author supports the use of GE technology in agriculture. These details from the text support the argument that Passage One effectively argues for genetically engineered crops.
You have read the passages “Genetically Engineered Crops” and “The Facts about Genetic Engineering” and have answered some questions about what you have read. Now write your argumentative essay in the space provided.
WRITING TASK
Genetically engineered foods use science to alter plant genes. Some people feel that GE foods are a good idea, while others feel that they are harmful.
Weigh the claims on both sides, and then write an argumentative essay in which you argue whether people should eat genetically engineered food and crops or not and why.
Be sure to use evidence from BOTH passages in your argumentative essay. Write your response in the space provided.
Before you write, be sure to:
think about ideas, facts, definitions, details, and other information and examples you want to use;
think about how you will introduce your topic and what the main topic will be for each paragraph;
develop your ideas clearly and use your own words, except when quoting directly from the source texts;
be sure to identify the sources by title or number when using details or facts directly from the sources.
Now write your argumentative essay in the space provided. Be sure to:
introduce your claim;
support your claim with logical reasoning and relevant evidence from the texts;
acknowledge and address alternate or opposing claims;
organize the reasons and evidence logically;
use words, phrases, and clauses to connect your ideas and to clarify the relationships among claims, counterclaims, reasons, and evidence;
establish and maintain a formal style;
provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented; and
check your work for correct grammar, usage, capitalization, spelling, and punctuation.
Please use two line spaces (using the "enter" key twice) between each paragraph
Same Passage
Given the ongoing debate surrounding genetically engineered (GE) foods, it is important to carefully consider the arguments both in favor of and against their consumption. Genetically engineered crops, such as corn, soy, and cottonseed, have been widely used in agriculture for their potential benefits. Proponents argue that GE foods can lead to increased crop yields, reduced pesticide use, and improved nutritional content, as highlighted in "Genetically Engineered Crops" by Tony Esplanade. This suggests that genetic engineering has the potential to address food security issues and enhance the sustainability of agricultural practices. Additionally, Esplanade notes that GE crops have undergone rigorous safety testing, further supporting the argument for their consumption.
On the other hand, detractors of genetically engineered foods raise concerns about their potential risks and long-term impacts on human health and the environment. "The Facts about Genetic Engineering" by Harriet Harrington points out that GE crops may have unintended effects, such as the spread of genetically modified traits to non-GMO crops through cross-pollination. This raises the issue of genetic contamination and the potential loss of biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems. Moreover, Harrington highlights the lack of long-term studies on the health effects of consuming GE foods, leaving uncertainties about their safety.
Despite the potential benefits of genetically engineered foods, the concerns raised by opponents cannot be ignored. While GE crops have the potential to address various challenges in agriculture, including food security and environmental sustainability, the unknown risks associated with genetic engineering warrant caution. It is essential to prioritize thorough research and regulation to ensure the safety of GE foods before widespread consumption. As consumers, we should be informed about the origins of our food and advocate for transparency in labeling GE products. Only through continued monitoring, research, and public dialogue can we make informed decisions about the role of genetically engineered crops in our food system.
In conclusion, the debate over genetically engineered foods is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. While the potential benefits of GE crops are enticing, it is crucial to consider the uncertainties and risks associated with genetic engineering. Moving forward, a cautious approach that prioritizes safety, transparency, and ongoing research is essential to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by genetically engineered foods. Ultimately, the decision of whether to consume genetically engineered crops rests on a delicate balance between innovation, precaution, and ethics.