Begin with Great Literature

Begin with Great Literature

Don’t tack it on!

Using the best in trade books as the core of an integrated program in physical science… …Five examples for all levels

A Rainbow of Skills for the Whole Child

Inquiry includes: Observing

Recording Connecting

Predicting Sequencing Cause and effect

Language Listening Communicating

Vocabulary Representation Writing

Experimenting

They can all begin with great reading!

Inquiry Begins when You are Relaxed and Willing to Adventure

Begin with the heart…

While physicists debate the

Sit Back and Imagine…

Poetry can capture the imagination of learners who would not otherwise be attracted to physical science

Joyce Sidman’s poem can lead to a variety of investigations

Mirrors Light spectra Journaling moon

phases

Principles of a Good Journal

Basic Information Statement of Purpose Predictions Plans Data Regular reflections Periodic conclusions Final conclusions

It’s the metacognative

reflections we often miss.

Students need confidence that they can understand physical science.

A Journal Must Be Personal

Drawings Video Free writing Photos Sounds

It’s important to communicate with students what you consider important in the journal. Observations should be recorded and shared.

From A Robin Makes a Laughing

SoundBy Sallie Wolf (2010)

Would a rose by any other name…?

Here’s a trade book that will change the way you walk through life. You may not stop to smell the roses, but you will certainly count their petals.

Fibonacci numbers are all around in nature

Life Science Examples1 petal: calla lily3 petals: lily, iris

5 petals: buttercup, wild rose, larkspur, columbine

(aquilegia) 8 petals: delphiniums

13 petals: ragwort, corn marigold,

21 petals: aster, black-eyed susan, 34 petals: plantain,

pyrethrum 55, 89 petals: michaelmas

daisies,

Physical Science Examples

Two Award-winning Books---Two Great Units

Ancient Astronomy

Modern Physical Science

Inquiry ≠ Hands On

Socratic DiscussionsGathering ideas discussionsMaking meaning discussionsTeacher begins and facilitates, but does not

end the discussion.

Satellite Explorations

Inquiry may be Hands On

Fission—One of the hardest topics to teach in an inquiry-based way

Another award-winning bookA free resource from NSTA

Why Start with Great Books…

When we consider the whole child in science, we enhance the capacity for wonder for a lifetime.

Don’t isolate skills, but allow them to blend, synergize and radiate!