DNA-DAY 2010 - ESSAY CONTEST

Third Annual European DNA Day Essay Contest for High School Students

The structure of the DNA double helix was unravelled fifty-seven years ago. DNA Day, April 25, is now commemorated internationally as a celebration of Genetics and its promises.
For the third year, the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) will be sponsoring a DNA Day Essay contest in European high schools. The essay contest is meant as a learning tool and a means to promote knowledge of genetics within Europe. It intends to challenge students to examine, question and reflect on the importance and social implications of genetic research and its applications. Essays are expected to contain substantive, well-reasoned arguments indicative of a depth of understanding of the issues addressed by the selected essay question.

More information: http://www.dnaday.eu/directions.htm

Questions 2010
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.
Genetic testing allows geneticists to determine an individual’s 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 person’s final adult height from infancy? Do you think that this would be useful? Explain your answer.

Prizes
First Place Winner: EUR 300.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 1.000.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment.
Second Place Winner: EUR 200.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 800.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment
Third Place Winner: EUR 100.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 500.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment


Special Dates
April 25 Deadline for the submission to the European Society of Human Genetics
April 25 DNA DAY
June 15 Essay contest winners will be announced at the European Human Genetics Conference in Gothenburg