Too often I hear about teachers who don’t teach evolution because it's too controversial. These teachers are often isolated from their science teaching communities and lack the resources to develop quality science programs. But with the support of the scientific and educational community, support is available in books like this one.
The NSTA Tool Kit for Teaching Evolution is an excellent resource for science teachers, whether or not they have a supportive group of professionals close at hand. Compiled by the National Science Teachers Association with input from the National Center for Science Education, this book contains all the elements a science teacher might need to develop, support, or defend the teaching of evolution.
The book begins with the history and science of evolution, then gives the details of three lessons on evolution using the 5Es model (from BSCS). Next, it explains the issues surrounding the teaching of evolution, including the social challenges of promoting instruction based solely on scientific content. Advice on what can and cannot be done legally in the classroom is given, as are summaries of recent court cases. Four real-life case studies are detailed, outlining the challenges of teaching evolution in the public school setting from the perspectives of students, parents, teachers, and administrators. The last chapter talks about what you can do to advocate for evolution education.
This small book really packs a powerful punch! I believe strongly that it's an important read for all science teachers. It provides both arguments and models for good instruction.