1. What should you choose for your topical issue?

2. A topical issue is one which… has at least two sides to the story Needs an understanding of science but… also involves ideas about how science works Can be turned into a question – this will help you structure your final report

3. Should we stop eating fish and chips to save fish stocks? Does it matter if organic food isn’t better for you? Is it right to use animals in experiments? Should the UK invest in wind farms? Should Boots sell homeopathic products? Should we build more nuclear power plants? Are zoos ethical? Some examples…. How can we cut down carbon dioxide release?

4. AVOID… science essays “what is liver disease?” might be a good biology topic, but it isn’t an issue. how about…’ should alcoholics be given liver transplants?’ topics that only have one side “Should we allow drugs in sport?” There is little, or no evidence, against this issue. How about “should disabled athletes be allowed to compete against able-bodied athletes?”