Watch Out for Common Science Misconceptions
October 24, 2007
When I was growing up, I believed what my grandfather told me about how the world works. Although I know he meant no harm, I was taught that objects are weightless on the moon because gravity is zero in outer space (actually, it’s not), I was told that water in lakes looks blue because it reflects the sky (again, wrong), that cheering for the Atlanta Braves would lead to a life of unhappiness and depression (ok, that one is true).
And it isn’t just Grandpa who has these crazy ideas. Even kids’ textbooks can be filled with scientific bunk such as electrons in an electronic current travel at the speed of light (they don’t). But with today’s technology, students have a world of resources at hand, and they can fact-check Grandpa faster and more efficiently than kids of yesteryear. No excuses!
Unfortunately, now I will not have the pleasure of telling my future grandchildren that Ben Franklin discovered electricity when his kite was struck by lightning (it wasn’t), but I will be able to warn them which sports teams to avoid. -DAVID BARGER
Recurring Science Misconceptions in K-6 Textbooks
Photo from Ben’s Guide to the US Government for Kids
