KLEIN's
GUIDE TO
SCIENCE EDUCATION
PHOTO CREDIT: Nadene Klein at Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite National Park
Today I had a most rewarding experience because my lesson/lab did NOT go according to plan. Students were to find the density of two "mystery" rocks to determine which of the two were quartz. Science Teacher Rule #1: Always test an experiment before having students do it. I only did that partially.
I'm so proud of how my students looked at their data and began critically thinking. They determined that something was amiss and did not accept the lack of their findings. 100% if the students went back and redid their measurements and calculations certain that they had made an error as neither rock had a density of 2.75 g/mL. They persevered and showed resiliency. (Have I used enough 21st Century Skill terminology yet?) Students rallied together and shared data and confusion. They concluded that there was either human error or our equipment is faulty. I shared with them a 3rd option....As it turned out, neither of the rocks were quartz. The container I got them from was mis-marked. I let them believe that I had it planned that way the whole time. GULP! I made the offer that tomorrow to follow up, students could either write their conclusion stating that their results were inclusive that neither rock was quartz OR they could find a more extensive density standard chart and find out what the rock really is. Can't wait to find out too! Students were so flexible in switching gears and thinking that suddenly this lab was about critical thinking and true scientific exploration rather than just figuring out density. Nonetheless, they still figured out density. And I, I figured out that sometimes the best lesson is the one that goes wrong. 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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