Hello Everyone!
Post number 2...here we come. My focus for today is on getting the conversation started. Not a one-way conversation where I type, you read, and that's it. We need some interaction!
I did some extensive research in my doctoral program around elementary science. The first thing I learned is that it just isn't happening. According to the latest report from Horizon Research (Report available here), science is taught an average of 1.5 hours per week for K-3 students and 2 hours per week in grades 4-6. Compare this to Math (4.5 hours for K-3, and 5 hours for 4-6) and Language Arts (7.5 hours for K-3 and 7 hours for grades 4-6), and you have to wonder what we can do to find a better balance for our students. Young students find science engaging and exciting. Why can't we find ways to integrate the subjects so that we don't leave science out and deprive our students?
Last week, my first introductory blog, left me with many likes but no comments. I'd like to ask you to comment today and give feedback as to what the obstacles are for teaching science. If we can identify the obstacles, we have somewhere to start. My hope for this blog is to find workable solutions for teachers. If we can identify the problems, we can tackle solutions from there. I have lots of great ideas to work science into the elementary day. But this needs to be a community effort! So chime in please!
I'd also like to include some easy access resources on this blog. I'll be trying to figure out how to link you to various resources on this blog, so check out the bottom and sides for links to investigate. This blog is new; so any input/suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Hi popped over from the forums to say hi.
ReplyDeleteLove the layout, reminds me of old school computer games.
Personally I think my biggest obstacle is lack of time. We are asked to cover so much and have so much written evidence real practical learning opportunities can be squeezed out.
Thanks for commenting, Ginger Teacher! Yes, I hear the time issue all the time. I really feel that teachers, especially elementary teachers are given way too much to cover in a regular day. Using science topics as the context for teaching math and language arts might be one answer. After school science clubs could also fill the void. I will keep striving to solve this issue.
DeleteMy obstacles are always time and a lack of resources. Excited to hear your ideas!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kelly! Alas, time again! I will try to share some lesson ideas that use easy to find resources. Resources are very important if you're going to do science justice. One thing I have found is that many community businesses are very supportive of science. I go to Baskin Robbins to get little spoons, or to the grocery store to ask for meat trays. I'll share more ideas on upcoming blogs. Thanks for commenting!
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