The following essay and research project prompts will help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

Essay Prompt

Consider the question, "Why do plants and invertebrates that do not express sialic acids have sialic acid binding proteins?" First, write down your own ideas for why this is the case. Then, research the current literature to see what hypotheses scientists have and what evidence they use to support their claims.

Investigational Research

The influenza outbreak of 1918 resulted in approximately 50 million deaths. Investigate the history of this pandemic including its origins and effects. Compare and contrast this earlier outbreak to the current H1N1 "swine" flu activity. What have we learned from these influenza outbreaks and how might that information be applied to understand and control these pathogens in the future? Present your findings as an informational pamphlet that will be distributed to the public at locations such as senior citizen centers, schools, churches, and drug stores.

Video Short

One of the interests of the Center for Academic Research Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA) is human and primate society and culture. Choose a particular primate and research two aspects of its society and culture. Create a short video that compares each of these aspects with that of humans. Consider what would be the most appropriate video format, style, and effects to clearly convey the information.