“This book is urgently needed. In a time when political tribalism turns even basic scientific facts into targets of cynicism, Bybee offers educators a clear path forward. His work reminds us that teaching the nature of science is not optional—it’s essential if we want students who can think critically, recognize evidence, safeguard truth, and sustain the civic foundations Jefferson saw as vital to the preservation of liberty.”

Robert Pletka, Fullerton School District

Dr. Bybee encourages his audience to think, reflect, and implement better teaching practices. I appreciate the work that he has done in providing references for his examples, supporting his claims with citations, and writing clearly for readers. His audience should include not just classroom teachers but also administrators, school board members, and even parents.

Beverly R. DeVore-Wedding, National Science Teaching Association

Today, science denial is pervasive, and teaching some scientific ideas can be challenging. Dr. Bybee offers a powerful yet practical approach to using the 5E Instructional Model that leverages the nature of science to enhance learning across K–12. This book is an invaluable resource for pre-service and experienced teachers as they explore the natural world with students, encourage evidence-rich classroom conversations, and confidently maintain the integrity of science.

K. Renae Pullen, Caddo Parish Public Schools

“Dr. Bybee addresses combating science denial with research-based methods and easy-to-use examples that focus on the history and enterprise of science, and how to get others to experience the wonder of the natural world around them, ask questions, and learn ways to gather and assess information. This couldn’t come at a better time for education programs and already practicing educators. Now is the time to implement change in science education. Dr. Bybee offers a strong plan for teaching students and others how to evaluate their own conceptions while setting aside politics, public opinions, and their own beliefs.”

Julie Olson, Dakota Wesleyan University

This timely reflection of a career in science education is a reminder that science teachers and education leaders have what we need to repair the road to strong science thinking. This book takes the reader through the development and evolutionary histories of the 5E learning cycle and framework for teaching. Using the nature of science as a basis for imagining scientific enterprise in the classroom, the reader can use this book as a blueprint for building lessons that drill down the point that science is a human endeavor.

Joy Barnes-Johnson, Foundation Academy Charter School

Rodger Bybee has provided science educators with a comprehensive process to address the lack of confidence in science we are facing in this country. The book uses an effective and well-researched teaching and material development strategy that includes suggestions for policies and programs coupled with classroom activities for all levels.

Harold Pratt, Jefferson County Public Schools

Science is under attack from all sides and with social media providing students with misinformation, science educators may wonder what they can do to defend it. In this book, Rodger Bybee defines the current problem and provides a practical solution that all science educators can integrate into their classroom.

Mark Salata, LMEC High School

How can teachers address the tidal wave of anti-science rhetoric in today’s media? How about getting down to basics and teaching the science inquiry process using the tried-and-true 5E model?

Bertha Vazquez, The Center for Inquiry

Rodger Bybee’s new book draws on his diverse life-long experiences and presents his well-articulated, inspiring case for engaging students in developing an understanding of the scientific enterprise and not just the content of science. His 5E lessons provide easy-to-implement ways to get started and his personal encouragement will bolster teachers in taking on this challenge. Our country desperately needs legions of teachers embracing his urgent plea to collaborate with colleagues, turning away from the current anti-science craze, and collectively advocating for learners of all ages to genuinely engage in science thinking and doing science.

Karen Hollweg

Navigating an Era of Science Denial Using the 5E Instructional Model reminds us that science education is inseparable from the health of our democracy. Rodger Bybee brings unmatched credibility to this work, weaving together the 5E Instructional Model, the nature of science, and contemporary standards into a coherent and compelling response to anti-scientific thinking. This book provides educators with a practical, research-based approach to teaching the nature of science at a time when it matters most.

Jim Short