Adaptations: Using Darwin's Origin to teach biology and writing. (1st October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Morris, James R.; Costa, James T.; Berry, Andrew
• Is Part Of: Evolution. Volume 69:Number 10(2015:Oct.)
• Page Start: 2556
• Page End: 2560
• Publication Date: 2015-10-01
• Subjects: Charles Darwin -- evolution education -- On the Origin of Species -- writing; Evolution -- Periodicals; Heredity -- Periodicals; Évolution (Biologie) -- Périodiques; Hérédité -- Périodiques; 338.47004094
• DOI: 10.1111/evo.12759
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-3820

Abstract

Abstract: Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species is at once familiar and unfamiliar. Everyone knows that the Origin introduced the world to the idea of evolution by natural selection, but few of us have actually read it. We suggest that it is worth taking the time not only to read what Darwin had to say, but also to use the Origin to teach both biology and writing. It provides scientific lessons in areas beyond evolutionary biology, such as ecology and biogeography. In addition, it provides valuable rhetorical lessons—how to construct an argument, write persuasively, make use of evidence, know your audience, and anticipate counterarguments. We have been using the Origin in various classes for several years, introducing new generations to Darwin, in his own words.