Lorrie Armfield
Science Instructional Specialist
MD

NASA "ROCKS" Problem-Based Learning

Thu, Feb 16, 2012 10:08 PM
Inquiry Anyone?

This article discusses a rock investigation that was set up as a problem-based learning mini-unit for the author's seventh grade integrated science students. At the beginning, the author explained to her scholars that NASA sent them a container of rocks that they needed identified. The students assumed the roles of geologists and came up with some ways to classify and identify the rocks. Students were introduced to the problem in the form of a letter which was posted on the school's webpage. This lesson is open inquiry. Students are presented with the letter and told that there were testing materials in the room, but they had to conduct some research to determine what type of tests they could perform with the materials and what they could determine from the tests, before they are permitted to do any testing. Great activity...inquiry at its best!

Tried and True: Rock cycle project—Rock and rap CD cover

Thu, Feb 16, 2012 10:00 PM
Rock and Roll

I most certainly will use this activity as a means to extend and refine my scholars' knowledge of the processes that occur while rocks are transforming among sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. Because its divided into several parts (five), 'the Band' will easily hook and hold scholars' attention. This is a great way to help scholars internalize specific concepts (rocks) in a meaningful way.

Cartooning Your Way to Student Motivation

Thu, Feb 16, 2012 9:55 PM
Ready, Set, Draw.

Cartooning can provide motivation for even the most apprehensive of learners. The educator can provide the resources, give the objectives, and then stand back and serve as a guide on the side, while the scholars engage in drawings to explain scientific concepts and/or processes. I love it!