Teaching Science

We have learned that children bring with them a foundation of prior knowledge about our world. As teachers, it is our job to build on that foundation. Our Science instruction should continually build the knowledge base of our students, challenge them to think differently, draw on the 4 strands of Science proficiency, and ultimately provide a healthy environment that promotes the best Science learning. Typical classrooms, standards, curriculum, etc. at this time aren’t  consistent with what research is proving to be the best way for students to learn Science. We need much revision in our systems. However, teachers can begin now to adapt to research and learn the best ways to teach Science.

In order to teach Science effectively, teachers need to always be learning and growing themselves as learners, have a strong knowledge base of the content, and have a strong knowledge of the best methods of how students learn. Teachers need opportunities to learn how to create Science learning opportunities in the classroom. In order to develop these skills, teachers need to collaborate together, be provided with quality curriculum and supplemental materials, have a means to answer their questions collaboratively, and have time and support within the school day to actually “do Science” themselves and think about the prior knowledge or misconceptions that students might bring with them into the classroom. They also need time in the school day to assess student work, refine and design units, and observe and reflect on colleague’s lessons. Administration plays a key role in creating communities that encourage these opportunities during the school day and the school year.

I have learned so much in this class about what effective teaching of Science looks like and I am so excited to put these methods into practice. I am thankful to work in an environment that encourages collaboration and professional development.