Title: Why Teach Evolution? | National Center for Science Education
Headings: Why Teach Evolution?
Why Teach Evolution?
What is biological evolution?
What about macroevolution?
Why is evolution mandated in science education standards?
Isn’t evolution only a theory?
Why are no other theories required in the science education standards?
What about other scientific "theories of origins?"
Isn’t evolution controversial?
What about dissenting scientists?
What about critical thinking?

Content: Biological evolution is a scientific theory that explains the pattern and process of variation and similarity among living things in terms of the common ancestry of living organisms. It is a widely accepted and applied theory because it continues to guide useful research and answer new questions even after 140 years. u000bu000b
Why are no other theories required in the science education standards? u000bu000b
Many scientific theories are required in science education standards. For example, students learn atomic theory, which is the foundational theory for understanding the basics of chemistry and physics — including the periodic table of the elements. Other, advanced theories, such as quantum theory, or unsettled ones, such as super-string theory, are less likely to be included. To be included in standards, theories generally must satisfy all three of these criteria: ( a) are recognized by the scientific community as settled because of their consistent performance in supporting research for some time; ( b) are fundamental to a field of study because they form a unifying framework to help us understand important issues in that field; and (c) can be presented to and understood by students in public schools at various ages because they have the necessary content background and analytical skills to understand them.