Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science

by National Academy of Sciences; Working Group on Teaching Evolution

• ISBN13: 9780309063647
• ISBN10: 0309063647
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1998-04-01
• Publisher: Natl Academy Pr

Summary

Today many school students are shielded from one of the most important concepts in modern science: evolution. In engaging and conversational style, Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Scienceprovides a well-structured framework for understanding and teaching evolution. Written for teachers, parents, and community officials as well as scientists and educators, this book describes how evolution reveals both the great diversity and similarity among the Earth's organisms; it explores how scientists approach the question of evolution; and it illustrates the nature of science as a way of knowing about the natural world. In addition, the book provides answers to frequently asked questions to help readers understand many of the issues and misconceptions about evolution. The book includes sample activities for teaching about evolution and the nature of science. For example, the book includes activities that investigate fossil footprints and population growth that teachers of science can use to introduce principles of evolution. Background information, materials, and step-by-step presentations are provided for each activity. In addition, this volume: -- Presents the evidence for evolution, including how evolution can be observed today. -- Explains the nature of science through a variety of examples. -- Describes how science differs from other human endeavors and why evolution is one of the best avenues for helping students understand this distinction. -- Answers frequently asked questions about evolution. Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Sciencebuilds on the 1996 National Science Education Standardsreleased by the National Research Council--and offers detailed guidance on how to evaluate and choose instructional materials that support the standards. Comprehensive and practical, this book brings one of today's educational challenges into focus in a balanced and reasoned discussion. It will be of special interest to teachers of science, school administrators, and interested members of the community.

Table of Contents

Preface	viii
CHAPTER 1 Why Teach Evolution?	1	(10)
Dialogue: The Challenge to Teachers	7	(4)
CHAPTER 2 Major Themes in Evolution	11	(16)
Dialogue: Teaching About the Nature of Science	22	(5)
CHAPTER 3 Evolution and the Nature of Science	27	(20)
Dialogue: Teaching Evolution Through Inquiry	44	(3)
CHAPTER 4 Evolution and the National Science Education Standards	47	(8)
CHAPTER 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Evolution and the Nature of Science	55	(6)
CHAPTER 6 Activities for Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science	61	(44)
CHAPTER 7 Selecting Instructional Materials	105	(16)
Appendices	121	(14)
A. Six Significant Court Decisions Regarding Evolution and Creationism Issues	121	(2)
B. Excerpt from "Religion in the Public Schools: A Joint Statement of Current Law,"	123	(1)
C. Three Statements in Support of Teaching Evolution from Science and Science Education Organizations	124	(6)
D. References for Further Reading and Other Resources	130	(3)
E. Reviewers	133	(2)
Index	135