Thursday, March 21, 2013

Ecosystems In Your Schoolyard Activities Packet

These fun, hands on activities are perfect for getting kids excited about studying ecosystems and adaptations.  Kids use their own schoolyard to conduct habitat studies and observe wildlife. 


This packet includes science journal pages, a graphing activity, flash cards, tips for teaching 
outside and more.  

Friday, March 15, 2013

Next Generation Scientist Awards


This is one of the easiest ways to reinforce concepts, introduce science related careers and recognize students for their hard work all at the same time.  I give awards to students when they are working hard, contributing to discussions or helping someone else.   

These are especially useful with students needing an extra boost to their self confidence or literacy skills.This set is designed with grade levels 3-5 in mind, and will be expanded upon once the Next Generation Science Standards are finalized.  

Awards have color coded headings which match one of the three disciplinary core ideas described by Next Generation Science Standards.

Landforms


I love teaching kids about landforms.  We do stream tables outside, getting mud and water everywhere.    We go on a geology hike and find examples of erosion and landforms.  The kids carefully record their observations in their science journals.  The kids can refer to these cards cards during activities and back inside the classroom.  I recommend laminating them for outdoor use.