A recent writing assignment at Spring Canyon Middle School in Springville, Utah, has garnered attention and ignited a debate on the topic of consuming insects.

The assignment, which aimed to engage students in an argumentative essay about whether or not Americans should be consuming insects as a protein source, has parents, educators, and experts weighing in on the pros and cons of incorporating insects into our diets. As part of the project, students were offered the opportunity to taste bugs, which some eagerly accepted.

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Amanda Wright, a school student's parent, voiced her concerns about the assignment. Wright accused the educators of promoting a "dark climate change religion" by assigning the essay topic. She and her daughter, Saige, recorded conversations with the school staff to express their concerns about the assignment.

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In response to the controversy, a spokesperson for the Nebo School District defended the assignment, stating that it was a fun and engaging way for students to learn about writing argumentative essays. The spokesperson said, "Students explored fact vs. opinion and how to determine what a valid source of information is to cite in their own writing."

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The recorded conversations between Wright, her daughter, and the school educators highlight the differing perspectives on the issue. Saige asked her teacher, "How come we can't state our opinion of why Americans shouldn't be eating bugs?"

The teacher replied, "Because we don't have any evidence to support it. It's kind of weird that I gave you a topic where there is only one right answer. We don't want to eat bugs and it's gross. But should we be eating bugs? Yeah, because we're killing the world by raising cows and animals."

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The opportunity for students to try edible bugs was offered as an extra credit option, although it was not required. This aspect of the assignment has generated mixed opinions on its appropriateness for middle school students.

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Consuming insects is a common practice in many parts of the world, where they are considered a good source of protein and nutrients. Advocates argue that insects are a more sustainable and environmentally friendly protein source compared to traditional livestock.

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Entomology professor Rick Redak weighed in on the topic, explaining that insects can indeed be a valuable food source. However, he also acknowledged the cultural barriers in certain parts of the world, including the United States and Europe, where insect consumption is not widely accepted.

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The debate surrounding the controversial writing assignment at Spring Canyon Middle School brings attention to the broader discussion on edible insects and their potential role in our diets.