Sara Hathaway

HI

Wed, Jul 22, 2020 6:21 PM
Just when you thought things could be simple

The tone of this article was entertaining to read. Robertson writes with a light and humorous voice which can be attractive to teachers who may not have a strong background in science. This method of delivery made it easier to digest the content and specifics of his discussion of the comparison of living and non-living things. As a Kindergarten teacher, however, I found the content of the article to be way over the heads of my students. I did like the suggestions for how to encourage students to create their own classifications for living and non-living things and that the article is a big warning that the activity may not be as straightforward as you might think. It is a great way to encourage discussion and debate with your students though.

Wed, Jul 22, 2020 6:09 PM
Well organized resource

This article provides very clear and concrete examples for using trade books to engage and expand students' knowledge about how animals interact with their environment. The first page of the article recommends two trade books and includes a synopsis for each book. I am always looking for current and high quality books to supplement my learning activities as it is a great way to integrate reading standards into the lesson. The article is split into two lesson plans: one for K-2 and one for 3-5. The lesson for K-2 explores how animals can change the environment and the 3-5 lesson looks into the different ways that erosion changes the land. Both lessons lead students through the process of 5 E's (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate and Evaluate) and at the end of the article, it includes resources that can be accessed in order to implement the lesson. Overall this is a very useful resource.

Wed, Jul 22, 2020 5:45 PM
Well written and informative

Although I teach Kindergarten and not first grade, I was drawn to this article because I thought it might provide me with ideas that I could modify to be appropriate for my class. I was not disappointed. I love how the investigation began because the students noticed something interesting and curious to them during their free time. I like how the teacher modeled observing the lizard with her students. In the article, the investigation then became teacher led. This is one area where I would modify for my class. I would want to facilitate the students in the investigation through inquiry, rather than just leading them through activities. I do like how the activities are varied and used a combination of group and individual work. If I were to teach the lesson, I would differentiate more by adding other modes of assessment. I think a great added bonus for the article was the inclusion of a story to read aloud to the students.