Molecular Biology & Biochemistry - Biol 99        Homework 2
due:    Jan 24,  2008 hard copy in class
or ...  Jan 25, midnight by email

Biochemistry and molecular biology are rapidly growing and changing fields.  They epitomize many scientific fields in that ideas and information are frequently replaced by new information and interpretations.  In order to keep up, it is important to read the research journals in which scientists report their research results and their interpretations of their own, and others' work.  These reports are often highly technical, and by their nature are usually narrow in scope.  One can keep abreast fairly well, although not quite as up-to-date, by reading "reviews".  These are secondary sources.  Some are written by professional journalists or "science writers".  Others are written by the same people who are actively involved in cutting edge research.

    The assignment is to read the article assigned to you.  In a short (estimate, about a page) essay, include all the following components.  read all the instructions before writing your essay, and follow the instructions.  Essays may be returned for rewriting if this is deemed necessary.  You may, and should, ask someone else to read your essay at least for grammar, and for content if possible, BEFORE you turn it in.  This is equally true whether you turn it in on paper or electronically.


1. Brief  (approximately one paragraph) summary of the main points in the article (from the author's point of view). - do not try to go into detail, just write what the article was about, in your own words. 

2. The one or two points which you found most important, interesting, intriguing, or new to yourself.

3.  At least one issue or question which follows from the work described i.e. what the next step might be.

4.  At least 1 future implication (e.g. medical) of this work.

5.  At least 1 ethical implication of this work  (or its future potential as discussed for #4).

6.  How the material presented in the article relates to some issue other than what is specifically mentioned by the author.

7.  Citation using an acceptable format for science journals.  Do not cite every statement in the essay; this is your own essay in your own words.


Please note that you are asked to summarize the topic, not to review or describe either the article or the author(s).  DO NOT QUOTE.  Use your own words to summarize the material, and then to respond to it.  Use the questions outlined above as guidelines to organize your essay.  DO NOT use these questions as if they were exam questions to be addressed by number, in order.  Do not assume, as you write, that the reader has read this assignment sheet & questions.