Susanne Hokkanen
Heritage Middle School
IL

Focusing on Function: Thinking Below the Surface of Complex Natural Systems

Wed, Jul 16, 2014 10:47 PM
Critical Thinking Using Systems and SFB

While the concepts in this article are complex, I like the overall higher order student thinking suggested by this article. The authors ask us to challenge our students to think in a systems frame of mind by considering "what, how and why?" questions to address structure, function and behavior when looking at systems within science. The article used an aquarium as an example of a system - something easy to bring into and maintain within the classroom. I might suggest that this form of analysis could also be used with the human body, while examining an electrical circuit, and even when looking at a rollercoaster. Again, the concepts introduced in this article are somewhat complex, and it may take a couple of reads to really understand the authors' purpose, but I believe this technique offers potential for getting our students thinking critically and analytically. I do recommend this article and the suggestions offered within it to help in the development of student thinking skills.

Teaching Science Through a Systems Approach

Wed, Jul 16, 2014 9:56 PM
A Systems Approach Combined with the 5Es

This is a great article and a "highly recommended" read to all teachers. The systems approach to teaching science is a great fit for the new NGSS standards, and for great overall science teaching. I especially like that the included activity, which illustrates how to teach science from a systems approach, is written into the 5E format. The lesson is engaging, relevant and presents science from a system perspective. I highly recommend this article, and I will use the activity as described in this article to introduce my environmental science unit. Great article, great lesson idea, and an amazing concept.

Putting a Twist on Inquiry

Tue, Feb 18, 2014 10:51 PM
Great Inquiry Activity to Incorporate Engineering

In light of the the NGSS, I have begun to revisit many of the articles and lesson plans I have used or planned to use in the past. The lesson plan in this article incorporates that the use of the engineering design process, along with scientific inquiry as students design working tops within a competitive setting. The only drawback to this lesson would be the supplies required to put it into action. I teach 5 sections of science with over 120 students total. This activity/lab could get quite costly, if I had to purchase the supplies on my own. I would recommend resourcing for supplies at dollar stores and even through recycling centers. I am considering trying this as class project near the end of school year when maybe we can take the tops outside to test them. If you have access to supplies, I would highly recommend this the suggestions in this article.