Here’s yet another great use for “Uncovering Student Ideas”…..

As a long-time science consultant and K-12 professional development coordinator for teachers and administrators, I’ve studied and used many of the important background resources that are referenced in “Uncovering Student Ideas” for years (such as Benchmarks, NSES, Rosalind Driver, etc.) . They’ve been so important in informing our understanding of how students learn science, whether our work be in lesson design, assessment development, or simply in understanding the concepts ourselves.

However, with the diminished amount of time that has been accorded for science professional development, and with a recent emphasis on “content literacy across the curriculum”, I find it increasingly important also to have ready at my fingertips some succinct illustrations and summary resources that explain and clarify for science and non-science educators alike the importance of maintaining the integrity of “best practices” in science instruction. These books have been a lifesaver!

Ideas about science instruction are complex and difficult to explain, particularly in the short amount of time that is available in many situations (for example during a discussion at a content literacy workshop, where the emphasis may be on literacy instruction at the expense of good science pedagogy). These simple, well-researched probes have served as great “hooks” to get conversations started, and the background and suggestions in each article summarize important ideas about teaching science so that others can catch a glimpse of what we mean when we argue for best practice in science instruction. I’ve heard many “aha’s” and seen many lightbulbs light up (metaphorically speaking) when these wonderful books have been shared!.

Thank you so much, Page and Co!

With all best wishes from a Maine colleague,
Christine

It was a pleasure meeting you at the NJ Science Teachers Convention in October. I learned so much from your presentation and from our conversation that took place afterward. I have included some of your probes and FACTs in my Science Assessment workshops. The teachers seem really excited to incorporate them and to purchase your published resources. I look forward to your future blog posts and to participating in the conversations on your new blog!

-Jackie