129. A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based Teaching

12/01/2023

Show Summary:

Claire and Natasha delve into the topic of phenomenon-based science teaching as an engaging way to increase understanding of science concepts while improving science practices. However, we warn listeners that not all lessons labeled as phenomenon-based are equally effective! Natasha shares a simple but powerful lesson that starts with dropping cans of soda into water to enhance students' grasp of buoyancy and density concepts. On the flip side, we also critique a lesson on forces and motion that falls short, potentially reinforcing misconceptions and likely creating lots of confusion among students. Teaching science is hard, and writing curriculum for science teachers is equally difficult, so this is not meant to be a criticism towards a specific company but we want to support a more general conversation on how to promote effective science teaching!

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

• 128. Preparing for the New Science Standards in Texas

• 121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science

• 92. Unpacking the NGSS ft. Molly Seward (K-4 Science Coach)

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

• Engineering and the 5E Science Model

• Teaching STEM Through A Story

Vivify STEM Lessons

• Density/Buoyancy STEM:

  • Ocean Study: 5E Science Unit (Sink/Float, Salinity, Ocean Layers)

  • STEM Pirate Ship Engineering Challenge (K-5)

  • STEM Sailboat Challenge (4-10)

• Drag STEM:

  • Alphabet STEM - Activities for Letter D (PreK - 1)

  • STEM Drag Device Parachute Challenge (2-8)

Other STEM Resources

• What is Phenomenon-Based Learning? by TechLearning

• Conference for the Advancement of Science Teachers (CAST)

• YouTube: SHARING HER PASSION | Tatiana Erukhimova Ph.D. (Texas A&M Physics Professor)

• Argument-Driven Inquiry Science (A Good Example of Phenomenon-Based Learning!)

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