Early Childhood Science

Ten years ago, you couldn't walk into a K-1 classroom without seeing a nature center. There would undoubtedly be magnifying glasses, objects to observe and many other science centered activities.  Now when you walk into a classroom, what do you see? Reading and Math. Now, I am not saying that there shouldn't be reading and math in an early childhood classroom, I just want you to consider the reasoning behind early childhood science.
 
Recently, I have reread one of my favorite books.  Doing what Scientists do by Ellen Doris.   The book has gotten a facelift and upgrade since the original version, but the basic premises are the same.

How do children learn?

·       By doing

·       Constructing knowledge through collaboration

·       Behavior and thinking take time

·       As individuals

·       Revise their understanding of the world through experiences

·       Feelings are part of learning

 

 

 

All of these ideas are true, and are especially true in science.  As a constructivist teacher, I never tire of hearing these thoughts.  And to make science meaningful for every child, science lessons should follow these guiding beliefs:

 

        Science is a process of inquiry and investigation

·       Familiar everyday phenomena provide a rich focus for science study

·       Children learn through their own activity

·       Teachers can also be active investigators

·       Applying knowledge of child development contributes to science teaching

·       A balance between structure and freedom in the classroom is important

·       Each class member has an important contribution to make

·       Collaboration is important

 Do you agree? I agree that these beliefs are essential from pre K to grade 12...but what do I know? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Resource for K-2 Notebooking

Are you interested in notebooks for K-2 students? How about using notebooks to showcase items from nature?  Those of you who follow my blog know that I am a huge advocate of GETTING KIDS OUTSIDE...

I have created a new resource that is available for purchase here .  It has 18 pages that use notebook sheets from nature to compare, observe, and describe basic properties of objects.  You will also be able to sort items based on size, shape, color, texture and weight.  Another set of resources allow the students to sequence items, measure them using standard and non-standard methods, and classify items as well.

Here are two free samples that you can download for free  here:

Hope you enjoy them!