Protect Science Inquiry in Texas Classrooms; TEKS (3) (A)

To:  Texas State Board of Education

PROTECT OUR CURRENT TEXAS SCIENCE STANDARD, BIOLOGY TEKS (3) (A), which reads:

(3) Scientific processes. The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:
(A) analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including the hypotheses and theories, as to their strengths and weaknesses using evidence and information; …
This Texas standard has been in place for 20 years, and even though it was written rather generically, the clear understanding when TEKS (3) (A) was written was that students would apply this critical thinking analysis to Darwinian evolution, or the theory of descent from some common ancestor.
Science necessarily involves the interpretation of data; yet scientists often disagree about how to interpret their data. By presenting scientific controversies realistically, students will learn how to evaluate competing interpretations in light of the evidence – a skill they will need as citizens, whether they choose careers in science or other fields.
At a time when other states are debating how to add language similar to the Texas standard for biology, one has to wonder why some groups wish to remove or weaken the Texas standard. What are they trying to hide?
Protect our students’ freedom for scientific inquiry…stand up for Biology TEKS (3) (A) by signing this petition.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The Protect Science Inquiry in Texas Classrooms; TEKS (3) (A) Petition to Texas State Board of Education was created by Moms and Dads of Texas and written by Stephen Smith (steves@cornerstonestaff.com).  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.