Teaching Strategies
Realia: Hands on activities are the bread and butter of a science classroom. They are important so that students can practice and gain new laboratory skills, and this is where many students actually engage in the material. The physical manipulation of “real things” allows them easier access to the curriculum. The microscope work and growing of mosquito larvae in class are the introductory activities designed to “hook” students from the beginning of the unit.
Microscopy: While working with the microscopes students will have to document their observations in their notebooks and through research compare the difference between the cells they observe and generalized cells. This work of matching what they see with the “official” diagram or photo of a cell forces them to really think about what it is that they are looking at. During these activities they must find and be able to show me different cell parts, and phases of the cell cycle. At times it is a struggle for them, but it makes their learning more personal when they are challenged and ultimately find success.
Collaboration: The final project requires them to work in pairs. For many students this will be their first time working on a large research project with someone else. This again provides them with the challenge of communication, division of labor and meeting deadlines in a group. These are lifelong skills that they need to perfect to be successful in all other aspects of their life.
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