Why Classify?

Just as there are in other subject, the science standards come with a set of skills that all students should practice and master during their schooling years. I really like how in this arti... See More

Just as there are in other subject, the science standards come with a set of skills that all students should practice and master during their schooling years. I really like how in this article, Robertson, identifies scenarios for classification, such as rocks in Earth Science, animals in Life Science, or elements in Chemistry. However, as opposed to simply justifying the need for students to learn classification as a process skill, he reminds the reader that students should not learn to classify just for the sake of classifying. His argument that students should not learn the classification system of organisms and then proceed into a unit on ecosystems is compelling and thought provoking. “Classification in the classroom should lead toward the understanding of concepts, or at least should be done with an eye toward the ultimate purpose” (Robertson, 2008, p.72). Robertson’s thoughts are definitely ones that I agree with and can take back to my classrooms and colleagues. In this time in education, it is so important to provide students with purposeful instruction and use of skills. Our goals needs to be for students to apply the science skills learned, not just know what they mean.

The Reasons for A Classification Activty

As the author points out classification in the classroom should lead to the understanding of concepts. Classification for the simple act of doing it is not recommended. There is a simple a... See More

As the author points out classification in the classroom should lead to the understanding of concepts. Classification for the simple act of doing it is not recommended. There is a simple activity described for students to do with peanuts in their shell. But as the author points out, classification activities should be limited in use. This is an interesting view that I fully agree with.