TASK 1: WRITING A RESEARCH PAPER In this activity, you will prepare a 1,000- to 1,250-word research paper presenting scientific arguments about the current genetic diversity of the koalas, and how these trends will likely affect koalas in the future. Your claims should be supported by scientifically complete evidence.
Follow the steps below and the links provided throughout the activity to help you complete your research and planning. This guide about the research process provides an overview of the steps you should take.
Part A
The first stage in writing your paper is to make a list of questions that will enable you to research the topic. Your paper should answer these questions:
What is the current genetic diversity of koalas?
How will this genetic diversity affect their long-term survival?
How many koalas currently exist in the wild?
How has the geographic range of koalas changed over time?
What do koalas need to survive (food, shelter, etc.)?
What adaptations do koalas have?
How do koalas reproduce?
How often do koalas mate, and how many offspring do they produce?
How do the reproductive habits of koalas affect their genetic diversity?
What factors should scientists consider when creating a plan to conserve the species?
Write down two additional questions you have about koalas that will help support your argument.