The story of biology is far more complex and fascinating than straightforward facts or neatly labeled diagrams of structures and systems. Although exams can motivate students, the key to using these extrinsic motivators to increase student understanding lies in the way the assessments are designed and what they measure. Those involved in…

Discusses biology instruction focusing on evolution-related policies and state guidelines. Reports on teacher preferences for teaching either creationism or evolution in science classes and compares these results between states based on grade level and how they treat evolution in their educational standards. (Contains 26 references.) (YDS)

Surveys reveal that many in our society have an inadequate and inaccurate understanding of evolution (Alters & Alters, 2001). Much of this can be traced directly to popular misconceptions about the nature of science. This, in turn, can be linked to misrepresentation by those opposed to evolution, although inadequate or ineffective treatment by ill…

Addresses the apparent conflicts between the ideas of evolutionary biology and the Jewish faith, especially those related to literal interpretations of the Old Testament. Believes that lurking behind the would-be debate between the Torah and evolution is either a shallow understanding of the Torah, or an unsophisticated appreciation of science, or…

Biology teachers can provide lessons for students to help them plan the future wisely. Three natural laws are emphasized as imperative to understanding how to plan wisely for restoring a balance in nature. (SA)

Traces the development of the current understanding of what "literacy" in science should be. Offers viewpoints that "basic" components of biology should include the nature of science, the way it functions, and other nonconceptual dimensions of biology. (CS)