Secret of Photo 51 Sample Essay Questions:

1. If you where Rosalind and survived, what would you do? It is the year 1968. As you (Rosalind
Franklin) continue to make a full recovery from ovarian cancer, Harvard Press has given you a rough
draft of James Watson's upcoming book "The Double Helix." They wish for you to review the book
because your name is mentioned throughout the book. Based on the film we watched, DNA: Secret of
Photo 51, write a short essay regarding: a) Your reaction to learning that Watson and Crick used your
research data without your knowledge. b) How would you try and right this situation (or would you try
to right this situation)? Explain your reasoning.
2. Was this simply a case of gender discrimination? Based on the film we watched, DNA: Secret of
Photo 51, write a short essay about what extent do you think that Franklins difficulties and lack of
recognition were due to the fact she was a female scientist? Refer to specific events from the movie in
your response.
3. Were Franklin, Watson, Crick and Wilkins ethical in their actions? Based on the film we watched,
DNA: Secret of Photo 51, write a short essay explaining whether you think the actions of each player:
Franklin, Watson, Crick and Wilkins were ethical (ie, was there wrong-doing on anyones part and why
or why not)? Be specific about what they each did and why. Is it necessary for scientific research to be
so competitive to be successful? Be sure explain why or why not.
4. Was the discovery of the structure of DNA was worth the price paid by Rosalind Franklin? How
was Franklins death likely related to her DNA research? Do you think the tragedy of her death is
outweighed by the benefit world has gained from her research? Be sure explain why or why not.