As a principal, I’d like to work with the teachers to develop some indicators to use during walkthroughs and classroom visits to assess how instructional practices in our science classes are changing as a result of the technology we’re using. Rather than reinventing the wheel, are you familiar with existing protocols we could use? –Delores [...]
In my Earth science classes, I require the students to keep notebooks. I give them directions as to what pages to put in the notebook and in what order. I thought this would be an easy grade for the students, but many of the students don’t follow the directions. Short of a failing grade for [...]
My middle schoolers were full of energy! This month’s Science Scope has many suggestions for channeling their enthusiasm into studying energy transformations. What’s really relevant is that most of the activities require simple materials and can be completed within a few class periods, while still focusing on higher-order thinking and science/engineering practices. Middle-schoolers love a [...]
Passing along some information – From Elizabeth Deakin: Heading into its 10th year, eCYBERMISSION is a free, web-based Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics competition for students in grades 6-9. Your students can compete against other students in their grades for state, regional, and national awards. Teams consisting of 3-4 students and a team advisor would [...]
I’m using probes in some of my chemistry labs, although I’m sure I could be doing more with them. In addition, I’m still trying to learn how to enhance lessons with the interactive board that was installed this year. I recently attended a workshop featuring several Web 2.0 tools that look interesting, but I now [...]
Some bits and pieces gleaned from listserves, blogs, and tweets– Professional development 10 Amazing Free Online Computer Science Classes from Stanford University. Each class is open to the public and is taught by a Stanford professor. Non-Stanford students do not get academic credit, but certificates are awarded as a document of participation. Wouldn’t it be [...]
My school is offering “mini-grants” to teachers. It’s not a lot of money, but every little bit counts these days. I want to apply for funds for a digital camera for my elementary classroom. I know it would be useful, but the proposal requires a rationale and specific ideas for science use. Jennifer, Evansville, Indiana [...]
As I read this issue, I really identified with What Students Really Think About Doing Research, but in a slightly different context. I was affiliated with a professional development workshop a few summers ago, and as the culminating event, teachers were expected to conduct a research project and present it to the group. The teachers [...]
My school is planning an Intergenerational Day, in which students invite grandparents or other guests to attend school for part of the day. We’re also inviting residents of a local retirement community. I’d like to participate with my fifth grade science classes, but I want our guests to be more than spectators. Do you have [...]
For me, the most interesting part of TV’s Antiques Roadshow is not how much the objects are worth but the stories behind the objects. The owners ask questions and tell the appraisers what they know about the objects—where they came from, how long they’ve owned them, and often a bit of family history and personal [...]
