Revealing Misconceptions in Evolution to Better Teach Biology
Submission Type
Event
Faculty Advisor
Edgar Lehr
Expected Graduation Date
2020
Location
Center for Natural Sciences
Start Date
4-4-2020 2:00 PM
End Date
4-4-2020 3:00 PM
Disciplines
Biology | Education
Abstract
Using diverse literature analysis and a compilation of field experience, this paper focuses on how common misconceptions of evolution can be revealed through scientific facts. The controversial history tied with teaching evolution in high schools will be unraveled in order to find the most common misunderstandings. These can include the “goals” of evolution, humans having evolved from chimps, individuals evolving within their lifetime, and evolution being only a theory. This paper will address these common misbeliefs that circulate at high schools among students and teachers, and will highlight the importance of a competent evolutionary education in the classroom. Evolutionary misconceptions can be used to design lesson plans that align with U.S-accepted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and focus on building biological literacy.
Revealing Misconceptions in Evolution to Better Teach Biology
Center for Natural Sciences
Using diverse literature analysis and a compilation of field experience, this paper focuses on how common misconceptions of evolution can be revealed through scientific facts. The controversial history tied with teaching evolution in high schools will be unraveled in order to find the most common misunderstandings. These can include the “goals” of evolution, humans having evolved from chimps, individuals evolving within their lifetime, and evolution being only a theory. This paper will address these common misbeliefs that circulate at high schools among students and teachers, and will highlight the importance of a competent evolutionary education in the classroom. Evolutionary misconceptions can be used to design lesson plans that align with U.S-accepted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and focus on building biological literacy.