Essay on “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”
Order Description
Essay on “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”
Students are to prepare an essay that addresses the biological and ethical considerations that arise within the context of the novel, ‘The immortal life of Henrietta
Lacks’. You will discuss the possible ethical and moral lapses in judgment that may have occurred during the creation of this tumor cell line. Although the existence
of this cell line has allowed major advances in the study of cancer progression, at what ethical and moral cost did this come?
Students should prepare the essay that reviews the themes raised within “The Immortal life of Henrietta Lacks” by selecting one or two of the following points for
expanded discussion:
• Ethical questions that arise within the context of the story of Henrietta Lack’s life and the growth of the very first tumor cell line
• Description of the pathophysiology of cervical cancer and the origin of HeLa Cells
• Use of current literature to address the current models for diagnosis and treatment regimens for this type of cancer, and how they differ from the treatment received
by Henrietta Lacks
• Value of the HeLa cell line in cancer research from 1950 to present
Essays should not read like a summary or overview of the novel but rather show insight and discussion around the themes raised within the novel and demonstrate further
reading.
Key criteria of this assignment
Written report – Engagement 60
• Discussion of the biological and ethical considerations that arise within the novel
• Discussion of the possible ethical and moral lapses in judgment that may have occurred during the creation of the HeLa cell line
• In depth discussion of 1-2 themes from the suggested list
• Evidence of further research to support discussion
• Essay should show original thought and discussion rather than simply an overview of the novel
Written report – Synthesis and Presentation 40
• Clear and logical presentation of an argument
• Essay has a clear structure
• Exhibits high-level synthesis of information
• Communicated clearly to an academic audience
