Content area
Full Text
Curriculum changes spark 'panic' about sensitive topics
The prospect of teaching evolution to primary pupils is causing teachers to "panic", according to an academic and teacher trainer.
From September, schools will be required to deliver the new primary curriculum, which demands that all Year 6 pupils be taught evolution in science lessons.
In particular, they must learn that living things have "changed over time" and that fossils provide information about life on Earth millions of years ago. Children should also be able to identify how plants and animals have adapted over time to suit their environments.
According to experts, the inclusion of evolution has led to significant concerns among teachers - particularly those who teach in faith schools - who fear difficult questions about religion and the origins of life.
Berry Billingsley, a lecturer in science education at the University of Reading's Institute of Education, has been working on research to help teachers prepare for the topic, which she said would be an increasing source of anxiety for schools as the launch of the new curriculum crept closer.
"Panic is certainly not too strong a word," Dr Billingsley said. "It will only be about this time of year...