Phenomena in the Classroom
K12Science
I was recently reading the July-August 2024 issue of Science Scope, a journal published by the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read an article entitled “Phenomena in the Classroom,” written by Patty McGinnis. An engaging phenomena is determined more by how the students generate compelling lines of inquiry that create real opportunities for learning. Paul Anderson’s “Wonder of Science” website has an extensive list of phenomena organized by grade level and standard. It is available at:
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Why Teach Science?
K12Science
I was recently reading the book, “Transformative Science Teaching: A Catalyst for Justice and Sustainability,” written by Daniel Morales-Doyle. In this book, Daniel looks at two questions: "Why teach science?" "How does my teaching reflect the world in which my students live and project the world they would like to see?"
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Goal of Science Education
K12Science
I was recently reading the book, “Transformative Science Teaching: A Catalyst for Justice and Sustainability,” written by Daniel Morales-Doyle. In this book, Daniel challenges the goal of science education.
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AI: Friend of Foe?
K12Science
I was recently reading the March/April 2024 issue of “The Science Teacher,” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read “Editor’s Corner” written by Ann Haley Mackenzie. She wrote an article entitled, “Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe?” Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here, in a big way. Do you see it as a friend or foe in your science classroom? The possibilities for AI are endless. Do you feel comfortable with AI developing further? Are you skeptical of AI? Do you see the many possibilities of AI for your...
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Field Trips to Zoos and Aquariums
K12Science
I was recently reading the January/February 2024 issue of “Connected Science Learning” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read an article written by Benjamin Krause Recchia and T.J. McKenna. The article was entitled, “Field Trips to Zoos and Aquariums: Solving Pedagogical Challenges Using the Next Generation Science Standards.” Though zoos and aquariums have become increasingly focused on conservation education, their unique and diverse learning opportunities have been underused. Active learning pedagogy aligned with the Next Generation...
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National Parks
K12Science
I was recently reading the May/June 2024 issue of “The Science Teacher” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read the “Right to the Source” section written by Danna Bell. This section included an article entitled, “See America and Its National Parks.” Today over 300 million people annually visit the 429 individual designated properties that are managed by the National Park Service, covering 85 million acres in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories.
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The Importance of Math in Science
K12Science
I was recently reading the May/June 2024 issue of “Science & Children” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read the “Science 101” section written by Matt Bobrowsky. He wrote an article entitled, “What Activity Can I Use to Illustrate the Importance of Math in Science?” Matt summarized 7 ways in which math is not only useful but essential in science: 1. Being Clear and Precise 2. Measuring 3. Modeling and Simulation 4. Problem-Solving 5. Discovery of Patterns and Relationships 6. Verification of...
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Caterpillars Count
K12Science
I was recently reading the May/June 2024 issue of “Science Scope,” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read the “Citizen Science” section written by Jill Nugent. She wrote an article entitled, “Caterpillars Count.” Caterpillars Count is a citizen science project to monitor the seasonality and abundance of arthropods (including caterpillars) on foliage. To learn more about this citizen science project visit their website at: https://caterpillarscount.unc.edu
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Voices for Change
K12Science
I was recently reading the May/June 2024 issue of “Science Scope,” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read the “Editorial” section written by Patty McGinnis. She wrote an article entitled, “Raising a Voice for Change.” Our students can act as change agents. Involving students in community outreach in which they educate, encourage, and assist families in organizing carpools, planning for weekly meatless meals, and limiting food waste are all actionable things that help the planet.
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Climate Justice
K12Science
I was recently reading the March/April 2024 issue of “Science and Children,” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association. In this issue, I read the “Editor’s Note” section written by Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn. She wrote an article entitled, “Climate Justice.” Education is a critical agent in addressing the issue of climate change. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change assigns responsibility to Parties of the Convention to undertake educational and public awareness campaigns on climate-change, and to ensure public participation in programs and...
info_outlineI was recently visiting the Cornell Labs website. While visiting the site I was reminded of the upcoming Great Backyard Bird Count.
The Great Backyard Bird Count takes place February 16-19, 2024. During this time you are encouraged to observe birds for at least 15 minutes and then report the data. You can observe for longer than 15 minutes and for more than one day. To learn about how to identify birds and how to submit data, please visit: