Evolution is one of the most important concepts in understanding key aspects of biology. Yet teaching evolution remains controversial in many of the nation's communities and public schools. Some teachers and administrators have said they are reluctant to teach evolution because of pressures from interest groups to downplay or eliminate it as part of the science curriculum.

In an effort to move beyond the controversy and focus attention on effective instruction, Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science, a new book by the National Academy of Sciences, provides teachers, school administrators, and parents with a well-structured framework for helping students in kindergarten through 12th grade understand this critical scientific concept. The book will be released at a public briefing beginning at 11 a.m. on April 9 in Room 2004 of the Academy's Foundry Building, 1055 Thomas Jefferson St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Discussing the book will be authors Bruce Alberts, president, National Academy of Sciences; Donald Kennedy, Bing Professor of Environmental Studies, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.; and Maxine Singer, president, Carnegie Institution of Washington; along with Rodger Bybee, executive director of the National Research Council's Center for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Education.

Advance copies will be available to reporters beginning at noon EDT on Wednesday, April 8. The book is embargoed and not for public release before noon EDT Thursday, April 9. Reporters should call in advance to reserve a copy or register to attend the briefing.

The National Academy of Sciences is a private, non-profit institution that provides science advice under a congressional charter.