METHODS FOR TEACHING SCIENCE

Using a variety of methods in teaching can help kids in their discovery of the content and process of science. Variety promotes a better interest level, especially with young children. Some methods are more effective than others in a learning situation. The instructor decides which approach to use in the inquiry of scientific facts. Also, with the various methods more kids can participate in leadership roles. As a resource person you are a valuable contributor to the whole arena of science for young people today! As an introduction you can bring in a film or video to inspire the kids about science.

Learning through discovery is the widest used method of teaching science. Through inquiry the kids are given the opportunity to discover for themselves the answers to the problems. They also can use their skills along with previous science knowledge to search for and collect information. The general pattern of inquiry is as follows:

1. A question or series of questions are raised.
2. Through discussion a problem is identified and narrowed so that the kids can solve the problem.
3. With the assistance of the teacher the children propose a way of looking into the problem and then collect the data.
4. Then the students interpret and summarize their findings - coming to conclusions which they evaluate.
5. New questions arise with new problems which need new investigation which produces new conclusions. Thus the process is repeated. This is the cycle of scientific discovery.

In discussing scientific topics as a class, you can determine what material the kids understand and where they still need instruction. Usually, it is best to lead a discussion after the science experiments so that the kids can easily contribute to the discussion.

Experiments are at the heart of science. These produce the most interest, excitement, and curiosity. Experiments are ideal for problem solving and give the child an orientation to the science topic. After the completion of the experiment the child can apply what they have learned to new situations. Keeping the experiments simple and easily visible spurs kids on in their scientific quest! Repeat the experiment if necessary. If the experiment fails the teacher and students can figure out together what went wrong.

Through reading children are encouraged to think. This is another way to get science across to kids. Explain to them the many materials that are available: encyclopedias, bulletins, journals, magazines, and newspapers. As an extension of their reading give kids the opportunity to give oral reports in front of the class or to make their own journal or written report. Kids love to "share" what they have learned.