In EDU267, Teaching Science K-8 the course covers teaching science in kindergarten through eighth grade. The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are highlighted in embracing science practices (inquiry) that incorporate cross-cutting concepts (content) and patterns (themes). Knowing science content and applying science pedagogy are equally emphasized. Additionally, an examination is made of how to integrate science with other subjects, particularly mathematics and literacy.
Discussion Project One
In this project, we had to explain the three dimensions of science and the crosscutting concepts. Throughout the past few weeks in class, we have been learning about how these concepts relate to our classroom planning application. Learning about the ways we can effectively teach students about these concepts can make science more meaningful for students. In this project, I chose to make a slideshow that covers the 3 dimensions of science learning, the NGSS, and how I would use it in the classroom. The purpose of this project was to familiarize ourselves with the standards and the way to teach them to be able to develop a unit for the first-grade standards.
This project benefited me because it taught me a lot about science standards and the methods of cross-cutting and teaching science. To me, science isn’t just a set of facts to memorize rather it needs to be taught the way it is, in different parts and aspects. Science is interdisciplinary and builds upon prior knowledge which is why I really liked learning about the DCIs and the 3 dimensions because It made sense to me as someone who really enjoys science. I feel a lot more prepared to develop the unit of studies after having done this project and bring this knowledge into my future science classroom.
