Teaching about Controversial Issues

Some of the topics explored and investigated in the units may be sensitive and/or controversial, depending on where you are located, what jobs and/or industry the local economy depends on, and what previous conceptions/misconceptions your students may have.

Some guidelines that may be useful for teachers follow:

1. Present the science objectively, being careful to leave your emotions behind. Research and data can raise students’ awareness and understanding of a topic.
2. Allow students to discover information and facts on their own, from a variety of sources.
3. If possible, invite local residents that have first hand knowledge of the topic being discussed. If there are opposing views of an issue, try to find speakers for both sides.
4. Encourage students to look for both pro and con, positive and negative, if a topic or issue seems to have opposing views.
5. Encourage students to look for solutions if an issue/topic seems doomed to a gloomy future.
6. If students become passionate about a particular topic, you may need to establish ground rules before classroom discussions take place.

Other web sites:

• Controversial issues in the classroom
• Cooperative Controversies