How Did Life on Earth Begin?

• Introduction
• Learners
• Standards
• Process
• Resources


• Student Page

by Leslie Trimble, Episcopal Academy

The teaching of evolution in school has been on trial in several states. But how did life on Earth begin? Students will research several possible scenarios, then present their arguments to the School Board (their classmates).

Teacher Introduction

This WebQuest is aimed at high school students in a Biology or Life Science class studying the origin of life on Earth.  Rather than presenting only the scientific theory of chemical evolution, it is intended to challenge students to look at competing theories, including creationism/intelligent design as well as extraterrestrial origins, and evaluate the merits and shortcomings of each theory.  Because I teach at an Episcopalian school, students look specifically at Episcopalian teachings, but other theologies could be substituted here, or students could examine the many creation stories developed by every culture to explain how life began.