Scientific Explanations: The NEW Lab Report!

Are you still using the scientific method? Do your students create daunting lab reports that are carbon copies of each other? Sure some of those skills are important, but with times changing, technology taking over the world, and students being forced to think harder and deeper, we need to prepare them for more. You are probably wondering, how is this possible? Well, let me tell how science has changed this year for me. If you missed my past few post, go check them out in order here:

• Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Writing Scientific Claims

• Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence

Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence - See more at: http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html#sthash.XJpPcHYh.dpuf

• Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Choosing and Understanding Scientific Principles

 I've learned a few things over the past month of school

• Students love to be challenged, no matter their level
• All students love Science class
• The more time and work you put into a lesson or concept, the better the outcome
• If you have high expectations for your students, they will reach them 
• Collaboration and discussion are powerful tools for all students
• You can combine math, reading, and writing into Science without even trying

My students and I have grown so much in the past month by using the claim, evidence, and reasoning writing. They love doing scientific investigations as it is, but now it makes sense to them how they can explain their thinking. They are also excited to step away from the "lab report" technique and have a chance create graphs and collaborate with peers while showing their thinking.  Our district is using this response format throughout high school, so students will have a solid start on the process after fourth grade. I'm exciting to watch them grow in their writing and science throughout the year.

Does this sound like something you'd like to try? Check out my new product! This version focuses on Force and Motion, but others will be available shortly. In this product you will find everything you need to get your students completing scientific investigations collaboratively in groups, thinking of scientific principles, and explaining their thoughts like true scientists.

Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence - See more at: http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html#sthash.XJpPcHYh.dpuf

Force & Motion: Using Gradual Release to Foster Independence: Analyzing Data/Evidence - See more at: http://pinkadotselementary.blogspot.com/2015/11/using-gradual-release-to-foster.html#sthash.XJpPcHYh.dpuf