Teaching Science Content Outside of Your Expertise We often find ourselves facing the challenge of teaching science content outside of our expertise. If given the choice, we would probably avoid teaching them but we know that that’s not always feasible. Let’s overcome anxiety with action, and brainstorm ways to find out everything you need to…
Use Backwards Lesson Planning to Create Science Labs Do you struggle with balancing time during labs and hands-on activities? Have you tried backwards lesson planning to create your science labs? I have mentioned this method in several of my blog posts, but I thought it would be helpful to focus only on this method to…
12 Ways to Use Sort Cards in the Science Classroom Do you need some ways to use sort cards in the science room to get the students engaged while learning concepts? I used to believe that matching sort game cards were for the younger classes. Once I started using them with my middle school students,…
10 Ways to Assess Students in the Science Classroom It’s not so easy to assess students in the science classroom since it is not as straightforward as other subjects. Students are actively working out of their seats, working on projects and following procedures. I am a strong believer in multiple ways to gather data on…
Using CER Science Image Prompts as Bell Ringers Have you been wanting to incorporate CER science activities into your curriculum but you aren’t sure where to begin? Using CER science image prompts, as bell ringers, has become indispensable in my classroom to spark curiosity and kick start critical thinking. I use an assortment of life, physical…
Review Made Fun: Science Classroom Gamification Can classroom gamification rev up the engagement and attention spans in your science class? “Can we play the review game?” This is the question I have heard for over 25 years of teaching middle school science. Many years ago I got bored reviewing for tests so I created a spelling…
Planning Lab Activities for Middle School Science Class Are you struggling with planning lab activities while teaching middle school science? How do you introduce the lab, execute it, clean up and draw conclusions in one class period? I use a method that I call “backwards lesson planning” as I am planning lab activities for my…
6 Types of Science Bellringers to Start Your Class The first three to five minutes of your class are the most critical. Science bellringers, warm ups, or starters, are highly effective in terms of bringing the students to order. These activities help gather the student’s focus and get them organized. The first few minutes of…
13 Ways Using Photography Helps You Teach Science How can you increase comprehension and retention in science class? A picture is worth a thousand words! Students are already immersed in a world of photographs and quick videos. It is literally how they communicate now. Why not speak their language? There are many ways to utilize photography in…
Science Projects-10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Assigning One Are you eager to do a science project with your middle school students, but you’re worried about (1)how much time it takes, (2)the classroom noise level, (3)the lack of accountability and (4)if it’s even worthwhile? Here are 10 questions to ask yourself before you assign a…
