Today, I did a science lesson with the fourth-graders about the reflection and absorption of light. This lesson was the first of the light unit and I don't think the lesson have could have much better! For the lesson, I divided the class into five groups and assigned each group member a role (recorder, reporter, scientist, and group leader). When creating the groups ahead of time, I decided to mix up the students a bit more than normal.
I had prepared materials for students to investigate with and the materials included foil pans, aluminum foil, cds, wax paper, two mirrors, flashlights, brightly colored index cards, and the students were also free to use objects throughout the classroom. In their small groups, students designed set-ups that they would share with the class for 2-3 minutes. Students were able to create systems to shine rainbows and reflections on the ceiling; one group made a "projector" that was just so creative. The students would observe at each group's station as the the reporter walked the class through what was happening.
I was so fascinated by the impressive level of collaboration and the groups worked really well together. The class loved the lesson and couldn't stop talking about how much fun they had throughout the hour. I felt as though I was in control and really peaked the interests of the students. The students enjoyed having a hands-on activity and how they were able to showcase/present their work to others. Just wanted to report on how well everything went today!
2 comments:
Wow Taylor!!!! It sounds like the lesson went really well! I give you a lot of credit because science is one of the subjects that I am nervous about teaching (it is my weakest subject). I was wondering how much prep work went into this lesson and where did you get information for you lesson?
Congrats on the success of your lesson!
Good questions Ann...I was thinking the same things. I would like to know where you got the ideas for the lesson. You mentionend that it was part of a unit, are you going to teach more of the lesson in the unit.
Where the children assessed at all? I was curious as to how you checked the students understanding. It seems to me that a hands on activity is harder to check for understanding. Please give me your feedback and what your thoughts are.
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