| Distinguish between science and
religion
Help students understand that science and religion are two different ways of knowing the
world. They are not necessarily in conflict; they are two perspectives, two different
lenses.
Science develops explanations for the natural world by gathering
evidence. Explanations that are supported by evidence stand and those that are not are
discarded. Science does not include supernatural explanations that cannot be tested by
scientific processes.
Religion is a system of beliefs based on faith, not bound by evidence
from nature. It offers a distinctly different path for understanding the purpose of the
natural world and our place in it. It is not better or worse than science; it is just
different. As such, people don't need to choose between the two.
Acknowledge that many scientists are religious and that many religions
support the teaching of evolution.
Understand that the courts distinguish between science and religion in
the classroom. It is not a matter of fairness to present creationism along with evolution
in a science classroom. It is inappropriate to teach religion in a science classroom.
Understand that intelligent design and creation science arguments
ultimately are religious explanations that rely on supernatural causes and thus are
outside of science. Familiarize yourself with some of the creation science arguments such
as intelligent design, but don't introduce this concept into your classroom because
introducing religion into a science class is inappropriate.
Focus on science and scientific literacy
Use precise language. Watch how you use the terms belief, theory, and fact. One does not
"believe" in evolution. It is a theory that scientists accept as the best
current scientific explanation. Help students distinguish between everyday usage and
scientific meanings of terms. People might say, "It's just a theory," meaning a
guess or hunch. In science, a theory is an overarching explanation that connects many
tested hypotheses and observable facts.
Give students experience using scientific processes. Students who
understand science process and theory formation are more likely to have respect for the
evidence that supports the theory of evolution.
Present scientific information based on the best current evidence and
emphasize that scientific ideas may have varying degrees of support, depending on
available evidence. Help students use criteria to assess ideas, such as the veracity and
number of lines of independent evidence that support a hypothesis or theory.
Be knowledgeable about evolution, and dispel misinformation
Recognize evolution's significance as a cornerstone of biology. Teach students the
interconnections between evolution and other aspects of biology. Know that the leading
science education organizations support the position that evolution is a central unifying
concept of biology and should be included as part of K-12 science frameworks and
standards.
Thoroughly understand the evidence for evolution as well as the current
understanding of mechanisms for evolutionary change.
Give examples of how evolution is relevant to students' daily lives
(such as antibiotic resistance, pest control in agricultural crops, invasive species,
etc.). When students gain an understanding of the role of evolution in society, they can
be better-informed citizens and decision-makers.
Correct misconceptions about the process of evolution when they occur
(e.g., we didn't evolve from apes, but we share a common ancestor with the apes that exist
today; evolution happens in populations, not individuals; the disuse of an organ by a
parent does not affect the offspring because only genetic traits can be passed on.
Create a respectful learning environment
Model respectful listening for students. Interrupt any putdowns between students and
insist on respectful interactions. Gently redirect questions about religion back to
science. Respect that students may have a wide range of beliefs about religion and that
religious beliefs are a personal issue.
Point out that students are expected to learn about evolution, but that
how they integrate it with their own beliefs is a personal matter. Accept your
"creationist" students without prejudice.
Use sound pedagogy
Engage students with active learning experiences that develop deep understanding of key
concepts. Present science as an ongoing process, not final conclusions. In science, change
is expected and accepted. If something isn't testable, it isn't science. In science you
never prove, only disprove.
Identify preconceptions early on as students build knowledge on what
they previously believed to be true. Give students practice applying their knowledge to
new situations. |
