KLEIN's
GUIDE TO
SCIENCE EDUCATION
PHOTO CREDIT: Nadene Klein at Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite National Park
Many teachers struggle with motivating students who continually ask, "Why do we have to learn this? When will I ever use this?"
I never get asked either of those questions any more. There are some strategies that I use that make those questions vanish. First, I begin the class by defining science with my students. They begin the semester already knowing that science seeks to explain everything around us, everything we sense, and everything we do. Second, either I state the real world connection or ask my students to find it for themselves with every lab and lesson. They answer those questions before they've formulated the question in their mind for themselves. Third, as often as possible, I give students choice to integrate what they are familiar with from their own lives. Voice and choice as well as connecting to self empower students as they engage in learning. I don't simple say, "You can either make a poster or a power point." It's more like..."Bring a toy from home..." "Choose an animal that you can observe everyday..."Decide what you want to know more about..." "Design a format for a data table that works for you... "...or if you have a better idea, let me know. We can try that." Make sure students know why they are learning what you bring to them. They'll be more motivated, engaged, and invested. 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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