The discussion centers on the implementation of required essay writing in high school physics classes, specifically through the DuPont Challenge, which mandates a 1,000-word researched essay. Teacher Linz advocates for this approach, finding it more effective than traditional science fairs, which often involve logistical challenges. Participants share their experiences with writing assignments in science classes, emphasizing the importance of writing skills for future academic success, particularly in graduate studies.
PREREQUISITESHigh school physics teachers, educators looking to incorporate writing into science education, students preparing for graduate school, and anyone interested in enhancing scientific communication skills.
Still, Linz has had success requiring his honors physics students to enter the DuPont Challenge, an annual competition requiring a researched 1,000-word science essay. I have never encountered a science teacher who insists on a major writing project, but it works for Linz. He likes the essay contest much better than the science fair. To him, competing experiments mean stacks of liability forms and debates about outside help. “I got tired of judging parents’ work,” Linz said.