Newton and Copernicus
Preface
The original intent of this collection of comic strips was to engage students in
conversation about science in a way that was accessible and meaningful. It is hoped that
the students can connect with the personalities of the rats, share in their discoveries, and
take a closer look at the nature of science and the ethics of science.
As the project has developed, I saw that this medium also held promise as a way to
increase science literacy, by weaving conversation, illustrations, stories and real life
experiences into a hopefully entertaining fantasy of talking, thinking rats.
The format of the cartoon provides a different arena to present students with
academic vocabulary in a context supported by background information and a storyline. It
also allows for students to develop an appreciation for the richness of the English language
and its use in conversation, writing, and in humor.
The curriculum is designed to work best when students are engaged in collaborative
conversation and is intended to incorporate all learners and learning styles into the
process, while motivating students to share their ideas and opinions in a safe setting.
It will allow students to talk about science, science issues, science ethics, as well as
specific content standards that are incorporated into the storyline.
Finally, it is desirable that this curriculum will challenge students’ sensibilities and
opinions about the ethics, controversies, and values of animal research and create in them
a deeper appreciation for the complex system that is the Nature of Science. The rats in
this fictional experiment become scientifically literate, but they also become problem
solvers, two traits that we hope students will develop in our classes.
This project would not have been possible without patient support and guidance of
Dr. Michael Rivas, California State University, Northridge, and the encouragement of my
cohort of fellow masters students. I would like to add a word of thanks and appreciation
to all. J. C. Olson
A Newton and Copernicus Companion: Copyright August 2007, J.C. Olson.