Mini Unit English

1. Aim: Why do people
continue to pursue
the concept of a
utopian
society?
Do Now: If we were able to exclude
the eccentric, the different, the
misfits, and the weak, what would
happen to
society?

2. How realistic is this film?
• Could the events be a part of our “near
future” or are they already a part of our
current society? Explain and support with
examples, min. 6-8 sentences.

3. Aim: Why do people
continue to pursue
the concept of a
utopian society?
Do Now: Why do you think these quotes are in the
opening scene of Gattaca? What do they mean? Do you
agree/disagree? Why?
Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has
made crooked? - Ecclesiastes 7:13
I not only think we will tamper with Mother Nature. I think
Mother wants us to. - Willard Gaylin

4. Aim: Why do people continue to
pursue the concept of a utopian
society?
Do Now: Does DNA
determine a
person’s potential
or are the
influences of
environment a
more significant
factor?

5. Aim: Why do people continue to
pursue the concept of a utopian
society?
Do Now: “We may
be able to conquer
genetic defects and
cure disease, but
we cannot conquer
discrimination and
prejudice.” Explain.
Does Gattaca
support this view?

6. Turnitin.com
Class ID Class name Password
7161109 Kudla 10H Simon
7161135 Kudla 10R Ralph
*Capitalization Counts

7. DISCUSSION: Group work
1. There are many hidden meaning in the words used in this film
Can you think of any?
2. How about the name Eugene? (Hint: what other biology words
start with “eu?”)
3. After watching this film, how do you think genetic screening
today might affect a person’s ability to get a job, or get health
insurance? Explain.
4. What tests already exist that make it almost impossible for a
person to hide their true identity or health condition? Give
examples.

8. GATTACA Viewing Questions
1. What does the term “Valid” mean in Vincent’s society?
2. What does Vincent mean when he says, “my real resume was
in my cells?”
3. Why is Vincent, as a masquerading valid, called a “borrowed
ladder?”
4. What are the women doing with saliva and hair samples?
5. Who does the crime investigator turn out to be?
6. Why does the doctor let him through anyway?