Development and Pilot Testing of a Next Generation Science Standards–Aligned Unit That Integrates Evolution and Heredity

• In Event: Beliefs and Reasoning in Biology Learning

Abstract

This paper describes the development and pilot test results of a Next Generation Science Standards-aligned eight-week evolution unit for ninth- and tenth-grade introductory biology students. The unit helps students build a coherent understanding of evolution through (a) inclusion of pertinent heredity core ideas; (b) analysis and interpretation of skill-level-appropriate data from published scientific research; (c) the construction of evidence-based arguments, and (d) the integration of crosscutting concepts such as patterns. Preliminary pilot test results in the classrooms of 20 teachers around the U.S. indicate statistically significant increases with large effect sizes in students’ conceptual understanding of evolution and genetics, along with increased skillfulness in understanding and applying the scientific practices used in the unit, particularly in scientific argumentation from evidence.

Authors

• Dina Drits-Esser, University of Utah

• Sheila Homburger, University of Utah

• Molly Malone

• Amy J. Hawkins, University of Utah

• Kristin M. Bass, Rockman et al

• Jo Ellen Roseman, American Association for the Advancement of Science

• George E. DeBoer, American Association for the Advancement of Science

• Joseph Hardcastle, American Association for the Advancement of Science

• Louisa A. Stark, University of Utah