In this paper, we present a teaching module about stellar structure, functioning and evolution. Drawing from literature in astronomy education, we designed the activities around three key ideas: spectral analysis, mechanical and thermal equilibrium, energy and nuclear reactions. The module is divided into four phases, in which the key ideas for…

Considerable anecdotal evidence indicates that some of the most difficult concepts that both high school and undergraduate elementary-education students struggle with are those surrounding evolutionary principles, especially speciation. It's no wonder that entry-level biology students are confused, when biologists have multiple definitions of…

The molecular basis of evolution is an important and challenging concept for students to understand. In a previous article, we provided some of the scientific background necessary to teach this topic. This article features a series of laboratory activities demonstrating that molecular events can alter the genomes of organisms. These activities are…

Are you interested in using argument-driven inquiry for high school lab instruction but just are not sure how to do it? You are not alone. This book will provide you with both the information and instructional materials you need to start using this method right away. "Argument-Driven Inquiry in Biology" is a one-stop source of expertise,…

The theory of evolution provides direction in many fields, such as ecology, genetics, and embryology. Examines issues concerning the teaching of the subject in the United States. Presents a case study approach to teach about the nature of science using the theory of evolution. (SOE)

Discusses controversy over the teaching of biological evolution and other scientific ideas such as Big Bang theory. Recommends that teachers avoid debating creationists, help students develop a greater understanding and appreciation for science as a way of explaining the natural world, and emphasize inquiry and the nature of science. (Contains 19…

Explains how an understanding of evolution's heuristic, or explanatory, advantage can inform today's evolution/creationism debates. (WRM)

Discusses the National Academy of Science's recommendations on teaching evolution and the nature of science. Describes a biology college course that uses evolution and history of life as the curriculum framework with an extensive unit on the history and philosophy of science. (Contains 14 references.) (ASK)

Describes the use of a creationist-derived lesson plan in a nonmajor zoology class to demonstrate students' grasp of scientific concepts and principles. (WRM)

The guide presents lesson plans from "NOVA" which targets middle school and junior high school students and meet the National Science Education Standards. Lessons include: (1) "Neanderthals on Trial"; (2) "Fireworks"; (3) "Secrets, Lies and Atomic Spies"; (4) "Bioterror"; (5) "The Missing…

Critically reviews creationist ideas on the geology of the Grand Canyon, especially those found in "Grand Canyon: Monument to Catastrophe." Contains 27 references. (WRM)

Provides an exercise to promote students' understanding of the commonality of certain basic questions to all of biology and demonstrate the power of using different approaches with very different assumptions. (Contains 15 references.) (ASK)

Modern thought is most dependent upon the influence of Charles Darwin. Discusses Darwin's contributions to the fields of evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, and modern zeitgeist. (WRM)

As both individuals and societies, we are making decisions today that will have profound consequences for future generations. From preserving Earth's plants and animals to altering our use of fossil fuels, none of these decisions can be made wisely without a thorough understanding of life's history on our planet through biological evolution.…

Discusses the issue of teaching evolution to middle and high school students and parent objections to this matter. Describes a curriculum resource book entitled "Teaching about Evolution and the Nature of Science" that was written for parents, teachers, and community leaders and is endorsed by the National Academy of Science's Center for Science,…