TPO 21 Integrated Writing Task Genetic modification a process used to change an organism s genes and hence its characteristics is now being used to improve trees through genetic modification It is possible to create trees that produce more fruit

The reading and the lecture talk about whether it is beneficial to plant genetically modified trees. The lecture presents some advantages, but the professor argues that it isn't true.

First, the reading claims that through genetic modification, trees are hardier than normal trees. For example, a new species of papaya tree is able to prevent the damage from a kind of virus.However, the lecture contradicts thi opinion by presenting that it is uneffective. The genetically modified trees are only resistant to the disasters that they are designed. Although many of the natural trees do die during the damage, there will be some individual ones that are resistant to the damage. Yet the genetically modified trees are uniform which means that if they meet some disasters that they are not designed, they will all die.

Second, the reading suggests that it is economic. However, the lecture points out that there is hidden cost. The farmers have to pay much more for seeds and they have to pay to the company every time they plant according to the law.

Third, the reading states that planting genetically modified trees is able to prevent excessive exploitation of wild trees because of the fast growth and high yieldl. In contrast, the lecture argues that the genetically modified trees are more aggressive. Since they are planted among natural trees, they compete with them for resources which is harmful to the wild trees