Child directed

I did enjoy this lesson I would say it is a great example of following the direction of your students. The students had an observation and the teacher took the oppurtunity to explore their i... See More

I did enjoy this lesson I would say it is a great example of following the direction of your students. The students had an observation and the teacher took the oppurtunity to explore their interest in depth. The part I felt really inspired to use in the classroom was the use of a collective model that was ever changing as the children learned more and changed their own models. I would also have to agree with Kims review about the think pair share I can understand how the pairing of two individuals that have varying abilities could possibly not go the way we intend. However I do feel it is important to try because that modeling can be invaluable to a child who does not understand how anyone can folow, understand, and add their own understanding on to science concepts It seems to be highly dependent on your classroom dynamics and each students interest in improvement.

Suggestion for pairing students

In the tips section for pairing students, it was suggested that you pair your higher students with your lower students. This can be very frustrating for both students. Instead, your High c... See More

In the tips section for pairing students, it was suggested that you pair your higher students with your lower students. This can be very frustrating for both students. Instead, your High can be with either the High Medium or your Low Medium. There can be some gap between students, but shouldn't be the highest gap. When you have a high ability or gifted student, they will frequently do all the work and your struggling student can opt out. It also isn't fair to your high student that they always have to teach the lowest kid in the group and can lead to conflict or unwillingness to work together.