This comprehensive weather unit complete with cross-curricula integration opportunities has been a wonderful example of how to construct unit that seriously effective. I have done a lot of reading about how social studies can be integrated into multi-subject areas, so it was nice to have an example of how science can be integrated, as well. I also feel that this unit was very clearly and visually organized (on pages 8 & 9), and think it is a great model for how I would like to organize my personally developed curriculum in the future. Not to mention, the organization makes it very easy to follow. Judging from the write up of this entire unit, It is evident just how important scaffolding is for student's learning.
I especially enjoyed learning about the "Focus-Explore-Reflect-Apply" cycle that the STC (Science and Technology for Children) incorporates into educational units. I agree that "knowledge is actively constructed by each learner and that children learn science best in a hand-on experimental environment where they can make their own discoveries." (p. iii) This directly relates to our class discussions, annenberg videos, selected readings about the importance of student inquiry. By exploring the ideas students have about scientific topics and engaging them in hands-on experimentation to clarify and extend these ideas, the F.E.R.A cycle utilizes inquiry for learning.
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Focus: explore and clarify the ideas that children already have about the topic
Explore: enable children to engage in hands-on explorations of the objects, organisms, and science phenomena to be investigated
Reflect: encourage children to discuss their observations and to reconcile their ideas
Apply: help children discuss and apply their new ideas in new situations
I especially enjoyed learning about the "Focus-Explore-Reflect-Apply" cycle that the STC (Science and Technology for Children) incorporates into educational units. I agree that "knowledge is actively constructed by each learner and that children learn science best in a hand-on experimental environment where they can make their own discoveries." (p. iii) This directly relates to our class discussions, annenberg videos, selected readings about the importance of student inquiry. By exploring the ideas students have about scientific topics and engaging them in hands-on experimentation to clarify and extend these ideas, the F.E.R.A cycle utilizes inquiry for learning.
.
Focus: explore and clarify the ideas that children already have about the topic
Explore: enable children to engage in hands-on explorations of the objects, organisms, and science phenomena to be investigated
Reflect: encourage children to discuss their observations and to reconcile their ideas
Apply: help children discuss and apply their new ideas in new situations
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