You have probably heard the term inquiry-based learning at some point in your teaching journey. There has been a significant focus and push on this approach in the last several years. I know there has been a myriad of PD in our local school district about this approach. But maybe…
As science teachers, one of our most important tasks is to convey complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner. Among these, the greenhouse effect stands as a cornerstone of climate science and environmental studies. Explaining it effectively to middle and high school students can be both challenging and…
Exploring the wonders of our planet, especially its enigmatic interior, is a pivotal part of Earth Science education in middle and high school. The Earth's interior is a fascinating realm filled with layers, mysteries, and scientific marvels waiting to be uncovered in your classroom. Teaching about the Earth's interior might…
As a classroom teacher, it's important to ensure that substitute teachers are set up for success in your classroom. This will make life easier for you, the sub, and your students too! In your absence, your students can continue to learn and thrive and when you return, you can continue…
Science teachers are well aware that the subject matter they teach can pose significant challenges for students, particularly due to its specialized vocabulary and abstract concepts. Recognizing this, it becomes imperative to embrace differentiation strategies that cater to the diverse needs of all students. Among the various aspects of differentiation,…
Every year I love when it’s time to use my solar system lesson plans. Whether teaching middle school or high school, the exploration of outer space and delving into solar system questions never fails to captivate both teachers and students alike. The sheer fascination surrounding this topic allows for diverse…
Throughout the school year, we as teachers focus on building relationships between teachers and students. These teacher-student relationships create an in-class dynamic that supports the social and academic development of students, and often makes the work in the classroom, especially for classroom management, easier. But as we close out a…
When the weather is nice, do you find your students (and yourself!) staring out the window and wishing you were outside rather than in the classroom? I absolutely do - so why not take the learning outside when you can? Outdoor learning doesn’t have to be a significant investment in…
What if I told you there was a tool you could use in science class that allows students to zoom in on their learning? No, not the microscope. That could heat up their chances to learn. No, not a bunsen burner. That using these could get students engaged, thinking independently…
While our primary focus in the classroom often revolves around content and meeting curriculum requirements, it is crucial not to overlook the realm of learning skills that lie just beyond. Among these vital skills are student organization and time management, which may not always be the most captivating aspects of…
Are you looking for ways to incorporate more environmental education into your science classes that are engaging and linked to your curriculum? Want some activities to use for Earth Day on April 22 (or any time during the school year)? Check out these 10 Earth Day activities that are sure…
Middle school and high school science classes become truly captivating when we establish direct connections between the subject matter and the real world. It is even more rewarding when these connections can generate positive outcomes for both the world and our students. This is precisely why it is highly beneficial…
The start of any new course comes with excitement and a bit of trepidation about planning it all! I like to channel that excitement into planning so I can alleviate some stress. Maybe you’re like me and you like to map things out too. Having an overall plan means you’re…
A virtual field trip is a guided exploration to travel the globe and visit natural environments without leaving the classroom. These educational experiences allow students to explore sites from the present or past. And the best part is they are aligned with curriculum standards to meet your classroom expectations and needs.
Teaching about symbiotic relationships offers students a captivating journey into the hidden workings of nature, unveiling the countless examples of cooperation, dependence, and coexistence that exist around us. By exploring these partnerships, students can gain insights into the complex web of life, the role of each species within their ecosystems,…
The changing seasons have fascinated humans for centuries, captivating our senses and shaping our daily lives. From the warmth of summer to the chill of winter, understanding the reasons for seasons is a fundamental aspect of comprehending Earth's dynamic systems. By exploring the intricate relationship between the Earth and the…
We have something incredible in common...We breathe the same air! What exactly is this air we breathe composed of? What does it mean to breathe "fresh" air? Does the air change in composition throughout different parts of the world? What about at different altitudes? What are the characteristics of the…
For over a decade, my relationship with lesson plans has been quite a journey, resembling a rollercoaster ride. I was first introduced to the concept of lesson plans during my college education courses. My professors emphasized their significance, highlighting how they provide teachers with a structured framework and a sense…
Upon stepping into the school premises, students often perceive a significant loss of autonomy, making student choice all the more crucial. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among middle and high school-aged individuals. They find themselves subject to various expectations imposed by parents, teachers, school counselors, and the administrative staff, among…
How to interpret data is important for both students and teachers. Data analysis and interpretation are key components of any science class, especially when working with the scientific method. We teach our students to gather necessary information, to analyze all components of their findings, and to draw conclusions prior to…
As an educator in the classroom, we constantly face numerous decision-making tasks throughout the day. Formative assessments serve as evaluation tools utilized during the learning journey, enabling us to gather valuable insights into students' comprehension, knowledge, and abilities. These assessments offer teachers a means to effectively track student progress and…
