I have learned SO much from my summer experience. Between NCCAT and my externship at the museum, I have completely decided to revamp my classroom. Before actually working at the museum I have already decided to write many grants to get materials for activities and experiments in my classroom, bring class visitors to speak to my students about topics, skype with celebrities (if able) to motivate them about science, and also to move my desk from rows to groups for the entire year instead of part of the year. I cannot wait to see my years transform. I cannot wait to do research and experiments dealing with the pore mites. Of course, I will not be able to bring all of the lab equipment in my classroom such as the materials for DNA sequencing, but if had time to get in depth, there is skype and online tutorials. We could even take a short field trip!
Team Mite is planning to really delve into creating the curriculum in the next upcoming week. Team Mite consists of two 7th grade science teacher and 1 8th grade science teacher, so as of now, the plan is to create 2 lesson plans, one for each grade level. For our 7th grade plan, we are looking at taking the scientific inquiry route. Students have not really been introduced well to the process of science. They may have heard of the “scientific method”, but may have not related it to actual science. I also want to reach the misconception that the scientific method is a series of the step that must be done in a correct order and when you are at the end, you are finished. I want to make sure to get them involved in REAL science that is happening. I can really see the light bulbs going off already!
I can imagine not having all the lab equipment in your classroom will be a tough challenge. Has your mentor suggested what your options are? I was very excited yesterday when we got to Skype all the way across the county. Do you think you would be able to Skype back to the lab with the cart (that’s what they called it yesterday, right)? Good luck and I can’t wait to see what your lessons become!!
Yes, we have learned so much, and now have so much to take to our classrooms. Definitely, teaching this coming school year is going to be exciting. I can’t wait to see the responses of our students to what we will be doing in class. Skyping and field trips definitely are great ways to enhance learning in the classroom, specially when you can’t take the equipment to your room. Students will like to see what is on their face, too- maybe?
I know you are excited to see how your students connect with your research experience. I also remember the presentation from NCCAT regarding the opportunities to Skype and grant writing. It’s great to see you being resourceful in finding ways to bring this experience to your students.
I’ve asked a few researchers in my lab about the challenges of teaching genetics without any of the super-expensive, super-fancy equipment. I want something hands-on for my kids to do to…I’ll let you know if we come up with anything!