ERIC Number: EJ1147983
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Feb
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8555
EISSN: N/A
Defusing Discomfort
Clary, Renee
Science Teacher, v84 n2 p26-30 Feb 2017
Although the age of the planet, the theory of biological evolution, and climate change are not "scientifically" controversial, students' familial and religious teachings can be perceived to be diametrically opposed to the science curriculum. However, there is a way for teachers to acknowledge alternative views and let students voice them without consuming classroom time: "reflective writing." Although reflective writing can be used with any controversial topic, this article focuses on biological evolution, which some of the students found the most controversial. This article presents bridging philosophical and religious conflicts through reflective writing.
Descriptors: Science Instruction, Student Attitudes, Reflection, Biology, Evolution, Writing (Composition), Controversial Issues (Course Content), Science Curriculum, Writing Assignments, Religion, Philosophy
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A