Icons of Evolution: Science or Myth?

Name: Icons of Evolution: Science or Myth?
Brand: Regnery Publishing, Inc.https://www.regnery.com/

by Regnery Publishing, Inc.https://www.regnery.com/

ScienceGrades 9–12

Icons of Evolution: Critique of Evolutionary Theory for High School

Icons of Evolution is a book by Jonathan Wells that critically examines eleven commonly cited pieces of evidence for evolutionary theory, arguing that much of what is taught about evolution contains scientific errors or misrepresentations. The curriculum presents a scientific critique of evolutionary theory without explicitly invoking religious arguments.

Best for

High school educators seeking to present critiques of evolutionary theory or teach critical analysis skills, particularly in religious or alternative educational settings

Evaluation Criteria

1 strength · 1 concern · 3 neutral · 2 insufficient evidence

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum appears to use direct instruction through detailed explanations and evidence analysis.

The review describes the book as proceeding 'in a lawyerly fashion' to examine each piece of evidence, suggesting structured, explicit presentation of information

Ngss AlignmentConcern

The curriculum does not appear to align with NGSS standards and may contradict accepted scientific consensus.

The curriculum critiques widely accepted evolutionary theory and evidence that forms the basis of NGSS life science standards

Knowledge RichNeutral

The curriculum focuses on detailed analysis of specific scientific claims and evidence, potentially building deep content knowledge in these areas.

Wells examines eleven specific 'icons' of evolution with detailed scientific analysis, such as peppered moths and Haeckel's embryos, and references current biology textbooks to identify specific claims

Teacher TrainingNeutral

Limited teacher support materials are evident, though the book itself may serve as background knowledge for educators.

The review mentions a DVD presentation and that the book is 'accessible and readable,' but no specific teacher guides or professional development materials are described

Scientific VocabularyNeutral

The curriculum likely introduces scientific vocabulary related to evolutionary biology and related fields.

The review mentions scientific terms like embryo development and specific biological examples, suggesting domain-specific vocabulary is addressed

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of retrieval practice or review components is provided.

The review focuses on content presentation but mentions no quizzes, review exercises, or retrieval practice activities

Hands On IntegrationInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of laboratory work or hands-on activities is provided.

The review describes this as a book-based curriculum with no mention of lab activities or hands-on investigations

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com