Ali Craig science methods

 WEEK TWO     In lab on Wednesday, we began class by reviewing the information we had learned last week, most specifically NGSS. This was a nice refresher as we were then able to intentionally relate a lot of our class activities to it throughout the rest of lab. We also reviewed the 8 characteristics of living things so we could expand on our discussion of living versus non-living things. The first way we did this was by working with our table groups to make an anchor chart, which was very useful practice as we will have to do this frequently when we are teachers.  Next, we talked about things that may be living, but could also be classified as nonliving. Examples of these were eggs and seeds. We were first introduced to this through a video and then we were able to discuss it with the class to understand why that might be. To explore that question we experimented with seed germination by putting cotton balls, seeds, and a little faucet water into a cup. I am excite...

 WEEK ONE     In lab Wednesday, we investigated what the Next Generation Science Standards were. As these standards will likely be what we base our science curriculum off of in the future, it is important to understand the coding and purpose of the standards. W e each found a life science standard that aligned with a grade we want to teach. This allowed us time to explore the standards we'll likely work with in the future. It also allowed us time to make sense of the standards, as well as come up with questions.  We were able to figure out that the NGSS is a set of standards held by nearly 30 states. These standards have crosscutting concepts, and practices. Using these standards to build your curriculum and lessons allows teachers to easily relate the new lesson to other ideas students are already familiar with.  As this is still a new resource to me I am eager to explore it more and look through more standards than just life scien...