Assignment: Persuasive Essay

Should Adam and Eve be taught as science in American public schools?

For several decades, some segments of American Christianity have pushed for Creationism, the creation myth of the Bible, to be included in the country's public schools, either supplanting Evolution or, at least, presented with equal weight. They argue that Creationism is not only divinely-directed, but scientifically sound, and therefore, appropriate to be taught in schools. In reality, the issue is part of a larger continuing debate about the divisions between religious and secular interests in our society. What do you believe is the appropriate place, if any, for Creationism in a public school education? Does it belong in a science lab? A humanities classroom? Or not at all? What are the consequences of having Creationism in (or out) of American schools? Finally, how does Intelligent Design changes the parameters of the debate? In a clear and concise persuasive essay, argue for the most appropriate role for Creationism in an American education. Cite from the texts below to support your thesis:

• “The Crusade Against Evolution” (Wired)
• “Intelligent Designer” (Salon)
• “In Defense of Evolution” (NOVA)
• “God by the Numbers” (ChristianityToday)
• “Paul Bettany’s Journey to the Dawn of Creation” (Vanity Fair)
• “Governor Perry, Like Many Christians, Wants to Leave Room for God” (Washington Post)
• “Teaching Evolution: A State-by-State Debate” (NPR)
• “The Evolution of Creationism” (Salon)
• “The Texas-Size Debate over Teaching Evolution” (Newsweek)
• “Defending Intelligent Design” (NOVA)
• “Board vs. Teachers” (NOVA)
• “Evangelicals Question the Existence of Adam and Eve” (NPR)
• “Evolution vs. Creationism: Study Reveals Public School Science Lagging” (Huffington Post)

Requirements:

• MLA format, including parenthetical citation
• 3-page minimum

The best papers will:

• Have a concise thesis with a clear argument about the appropriate role of Creationism in schools
• Utilize rhetorical techniques in order to convince readers of your position
• Support their thesis with solid evidence organized in a logical structure
• Properly cite evidence, using MLA's parenthetical citation method
• Conclude with a summation of your points
• Be in MLA Style

Due: We 10.12