Many science curriculum guides are identifying “big ideas” (or essential questions, underlying themes, understandings) that provide context or a framework for helping students to make connections between concepts within and between subject areas. Some students are able to make their own connections, but many others may need a little assistance to get to this “aha” [...]
This summer, I attended the Space Academy for Educators at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. I am a K–5 reading specialist, and I also am the Science Power Hour instructor in our afterschool program. Obviously, we will be learning lots and lots about space this year! What concepts should I expect my [...]
I know that summer is well underway when I get my July issue of The Science Teacher with suggestions for new books to read, websites to explore, and topics to think about! Call me a dinosaur, but to me there’s nothing better than curling up with a good book on a hot summer day—at the [...]
Teachers use several strategies at the end of the school year. One strategy is to try to cram in as many topics as possible in an effort to “cover” everything. Other teachers use culminating or capstone projects to integrate concepts and give students a chance to use what they’ve learned in science (and other subjects). [...]
I teach science at the elementary level. I’d like to improve our nonfiction science collection for students to read outside of class or for teachers to use during read-alouds. I want to be sure what we purchase is appropriate; do you have any suggestions or lists of recommended books for this level? —Gina, Thornton, Colorado [...]
