KLEIN's
GUIDE TO
SCIENCE EDUCATION
PHOTO CREDIT: Nadene Klein at Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite National Park
Yesterday (November 27, 2018) in the middle of the school day, something amazing happened. The MarCO mission successfully landed the INSIGHT robot on Mars. Talk about a teachable moment! However, does it fit?
My Astronomy class doesn't begin until January. Could I actually justify bringing this topic up in my other science classes? You bet! I would be remiss if I did not. I could not find a single connection between space exploration and Zoology. So what? My students were engaged in finding out about this momentous accomplishment. They were not derailed by this educational diversion from our studies of endangered species. They saw the importance of learning about a real life science event. In my Earth and Environmental Science classes, I asked students to find the connection. Sure enough they described the comparison of Earth's atmosphere with that of Mars. This was a crucial for the scientists and engineers to know in order to program and design a safe landing. I had an even easier time with my Physics classes. The motion of the lander is nothing but Physics. Students saw this easily and we had a fulfilling discussion about the application of what we've already learned in class to INSIGHT. Don't refrain from bringing current events into your science classroom even if it is off-topic. The benefit to students in seeing the application of science in the real world is immeasurable. I invite you to share how you've brought current events into your classroom; just leave a comment below. Scientifically yours, Nadene
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AuthorNadene Klein, M.Ed. has been an educator for over 25 years. She brings a passion and love for science to the classroom and through this blog to you. Archives
March 2024
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