Big Ideas in Science

presented by

Oscar Newman, NBCT EA Science6-8 Grade Science & Math Teacher

Chicago Academy Elementary Schoolodnewman@cps.edu

odnewman@gmail.com

Introductions

Your presenter This workshop

Rationale

Crisis in Science education...

National Standards? Science Illiteracy

Solution: Let's Do Science!

Science as Activities

Science as Inquiry

But what is Inquiry?

“The actions of teachers are deeply influenced by their perceptions of science as an enterprise and as a subject to be taught and learned...Teachers

can only be effective guides for students learning if they have an opportunity to examine their own

beliefs...[as well as the rationale for science standards].”

from the National Science Education Standards

Your Charge

Your Understandings Content Knowledge Pedagogical Content

Knowledge Systematic instruction Familiarity with Unifying

Concepts and Processes

A model of what inquiry means...

Classroom Activities Authentic experiences Relevant experiences Inquiry as a primarily

cognitive enterprise experiential, conceptual,

attitudinal foundation...

“The key question for teachers to consider is not What is taught? but How is the topic taught?”

Practice!

Unifying Concepts and Processes

systems, order, and organization;

evidence, models, and explanation;

constancy, change, and measurement;

evolution and equilibrium; form and function

Does the statement...

identify a theme and unifying concept or process?

respond to student knowledge, natural curiosities, experiences, or diversity of students?

Make a clear connection between math and science in the statement?

reflect an enlightened understanding of science as inquiry?

appear part of a systematic approach to science and math instruction?

Questions?

Bye!