A Focus on Writing in the General Biology Class (Journal Article)

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Abstract-

Writing is a high-impact tool that is often used to improve student learning, success, and critical thinking. Science courses typically implement writing in the form of laboratory and/or research reports. To extend the use of writing and use it as a tool to learn biology, both in-class/informal and out-of-class/formal writing assignments were designed. All the assignments focused on two important skills biology students are expected to gain: To compare and contrast biological processes and present and defend an argument. The assignments were implemented throughout the semester with a final, cumulative out-of-class assignment to give students an opportunity to review whole class material. The assignments were used in in-person, hybrid, and online General Biology I course at a community college. These assignments can be used as is, modified by the instructor, or used as preparation for valuable classroom debates.