KLEIN's
GUIDE TO
SCIENCE EDUCATION
PHOTO CREDIT: Nadene Klein at Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite National Park
Sustainability is an important topic in environmental education. Instead of lectures and worksheets, I had my students learn through an authentic project (PBL). The first logistical consideration I accounted for was the weather. When we had a forecast of clear sunny skies for several days, I knew it was time to launch the project. The first task without any introduction was to have students form 3 groups and assemble a Solar Oven. The kit came with instructions. Once the Solar Ovens were assembled, the next challenge was presented. I showed a short video that explained the value and manner of solar cooking. Each group had to learn how to use the oven. Next, they had to find a recipe that would work in the solar oven and for which they could provide the ingredients. Collaboration was key.
SURPRISE...I announced to the class that this was going to be a "cook-off." I had gathered judges from our administration and counseling department. The students handled this challenge with enthusiasm. They embraced the challenge and worked hard to make good food using the Solar Ovens, something they'd never done before. Every single student was fully engaged. When one student forgot an ingredient the next day, the group problem solved how to adjust the recipe. The skill of critical thinking came into play with this incident. Everyone enjoyed sampling the foods created by each group. The next day, students wrote reflections on the experience of this project. Bringing closure through metacognition is super important in the learning process. Students wrote about what went well, what they would improve, how they could use solar cooking in their personal lives and how they could share or teach others about solar cooking. Lastly, I announced the winners based on the judges votes. Everyone got a prize and celebrated the success of this project. P.S. While each group collaborated amongst their members, they did not collaborate between groups. As it happened, it turned into a cohesive meal. Group 1 chose to make garlic bread with an alfredo dipping sauce (appetizer). Group 2 chose to make a pizza that turned into focaccia bread (main course). Group 3 won with their dessert of pumpkin muffins with chocolate chips.
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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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