This is the link for Unit Assignment #4. The purpose of this assignment is to allow students the opportunity to dive deeper into a topic related to the content in Unit 2. Students will have the option to choose one (1) of the following writing prompts. Students only need to answer the questions for one of the prompts. I am expecting no more than 1-2 pages (if you do write more, this is okay too, but not expected). 

Guidelines for assignment:

– Students should read the information about Options 1 and 2 below, then select which prompt they wish to answer. Students only need to answer one prompt. 

– Students must submit a file to the Turnitin link by the deadline for this assignment. See assignment instructions for formatting. Students can resubmit their assignment an unlimited number of times until the deadline. 

Step 1: Please read the editorial article below from Nature. I have also copied links to some other websites to provide additional information. You’re welcome to research more information from credible resources on your own too!

https://media.nature.com/original/magazine-assets/d41586-020-02494-z/d41586-020-02494-z.pdf (Links to an external site.) 

https://hela100.org/ (Links to an external site.) 

http://henriettalacksfoundation.org/ (Links to an external site.) 

Step 2: Create a word document or PDF answering the following questions. Please note the following before you begin:

– Do not submit a .pages file–it will not go through Turnitin. 

– Review the rubric below. This is the rubric the TA’s will use to grade your submission. 

– Be sure to write in complete sentences, and label each answer so it is clear which question you are answering. It is fine to number your answers.

(1) In class, we learned about cancer, and some differences between cancerous cells and non-cancerous cells. 

• What is cancer, as described in class? (2.5 points)
• Describe one difference between cancerous and non-cancerous cells. (2.5 points)

(2) In 1 paragraph, summarize what you think is the role of Henrietta Lacks’ cells in modern medicine. Why were these cells considered valuable to medical research? Be sure to support your ideas with information from the article. If you paraphrase or quote any sources, please use in-text citations to give credit to the authors. (5 points)

(3) The article explores policy review, and suggests two steps that the field could take to address issues of consent and disparity in scientific research. Please describe the steps from the article. *Note: avoid using large blocks of quotes, and try to rewrite ideas in your own words. (2.5 points each)

(4) Imagine that you were involved in the committees or organizations making decisions about these policies. What would be one suggestion you could provide to these groups moving forward? In other words, what role do you think Henrietta Lacks’ cells should have in modern medicine in the future? (5 points)

Grading Rubric for Option #1

ExcellentModerateNeeds Improvement

Question (1)

Answer to each part is worth 2.5 points. 

5 points

Student accurately describes cancer, as explained in BSC2011

Student accurately describes at least one difference between cancerous and non-cancerous cells, as described in BSC2011. 

2.5 points

Descriptions on one or both parts of the question are vague or not referenced from class materials.

1-0 points

Student does not answer the question prompts or responses are too vague to understand ideas. 

OR

Student uses block quotes rather than re-writing in their own words. 

Question (2)

5 points

5 points

Student provides logical summary of ideas, clearly drawing from article and potentially additional resources to explain thinking.

2.5 points

Explanation is vague or ideas or not supported with references from class materials.

1-0 points

Student does not answer the question prompts or responses are too vague to understand ideas. 

OR

Student uses block quotes rather than re-writing in their own words. 

Question (3)

Answer to each part is worth 2.5 points. 

5 points

Two steps are clearly noted and described, and it is evident that the article was used to support thinking.

2.5 points

Explanation is vague or ideas or not supported with references from class materials.

1-0 points

Student does not answer the question prompts or responses are too vague to understand ideas. 

OR

Student uses block quotes rather than re-writing in their own words. 

Question (4)

5 points

5 points

Student provides logical summary of their ideas, drawing from article or additional resources to explain thinking.

2.5 points

Explanation is vague or ideas somewhat unclear.

1-0 points

Student does not answer the question prompts or responses are too vague to understand ideas. 

OR

Student uses block quotes rather than re-writing in their own words.