DNA, RNA and Genetics Essay Questions

Once again, you will be preparing essay questions for your test on DNA and RNA. You have two essay options, from which one will be chosen on the day of the test. These will be 5 paragraph essays! You are expected to be able to answer either of these essays by the time of the test. You should be reading and researching material beyond what we have discussed in class to find complete answers for these questions. Be sure to prepare a relevant and detailed thesis statement that directly answers the questions that are asked.

1. What is the relationship between Gregor Mendel’s discovery of the inheritance of traits and modern genetics? Explain what Mendel theorized about genes and how traits were passed down at the time of his discoveries, and how later discoveries have supported his ideas. Use specific examples to show how our understanding of genetics has changed since Mendel’s time. Examples can include the structure and function of DNA, the process of protein synthesis or the role of chromosomes in meiosis and gamete formation.


2. Who was responsible for the discovery of DNA’s double helix structure and why was this discovery important? Discuss the events and discoveries that led up to the discovery of the structure of DNA. Be sure to include the different roles that individuals played in this discovery and an understanding of the structure of both the monomers and polymers of DNA. There were more people involved in this discovery than Watson and Crick, so be sure to discuss their contributions and any controversy surrounding the publication of the discovery and the resulting Nobel Prize received by Watson and Crick.