Week 12 Blog Post

 

What did you learn this week?

This week in lab we looked back at our observations that we did over the skittles and starbursts. We came up with ways or forms that we could have our students do this same observation in. The form that I came up with was listing off the five different senses, and having them come up with observations that fall under each of those categories. I think this would allow them to have a starting point, as well as come up with observations that are more than just what you can see. We also did some activities that went over the concept of matter and what happens when you break an object into multiple pieces. We then tested the different masses, volume, etc. of the whole objects and the smaller piece of the objects, where we were then able to see the differences. We were also able to see the different properties between the objects through activities like the magnet and electricity one, where we were able to see how they differed.

How can you apply what you've learned to your teaching in the future?

Creating a form for the observations was really helpful as it allowed me to begin thinking of ways that I can design assignments that would be beneficial for my students and in ways that will improve their learning. I also really enjoyed the activities that we did on matter. I think they were all very hands on and would be able to keep the engagement level in the classroom very high. I think one part of this activity that the students will really enjoy is the one with the electrical circuit. I feel that you'll most likely have to help the students set it up at first but once they get they hang of it they will really enjoy it.

What are new or remaining questions?

With the matter activity, should we do this activity over more than one day? Is there too many parts for elementary students to do all in one lesson?