Talking Allowed! Using Science Discourse for Equity
Workshop Resources Earth and Space Science 6-8 Middle School Why is science discourse important? How does it impact improving equity in a science classroom? How do teachers implement this strategy? Learn the answers to these and other questions as you explore engaging (STCMS) lessons from the Smithsonian. Download Presentation Download Handouts Other STCMS Resources
Exploring OpenSciEd from Carolina
Workshop Resources Earth and Space Science 6-8 Middle School Experience the pedagogy of OpenSciEd for middle school by engaging in a model lesson from the new Carolina Certified Version. In this workshop, teachers will experience the four elements of the anchoring phenomenon routine. Teachers will experience firsthand how the anchoring phenomenon routine motivates students to […]
Decomposition by Physarum polycephalum
A Carolina EssentialsTM Activity Total Time: 2.75 hr Prep: 1.5 | Activity: 1.25 Life Science 9-12 High School Total Time: 2.75 hr [ Prep: 1.5 hrs | Activity: 1.25 hrs ] Subject: Life Science Grade: High School Introduction This observational microbiology activity introduces students to a slime mold from the genus Physarum, a decomposer found […]
Photosynthesis Modeling with Pop Beads
While studying photosynthesis, students can have difficulty understanding how the carbon in CO2 becomes the carbon in glucose (6H2O + 6CO2?C6H12O6 + 6O2). To clarify this concept, have your students create a basic diagram of the Calvin cycle by drawing a large circle on a piece of white drawing paper and dividing the circle into thirds. Use […]
Teaching the Calvin Cycle
The Calvin cycle of photosynthesis can be difficult to teach and to learn when presented only as a relentless sequence of complex reactions. Two ways to make the abstract subject easier to grasp are to help your students keep the big picture in view throughout the discussion and to have them use models for the […]
Photosynthesis and Floating Leaf Disks
If you have never tried the leaf disk assay, you are missing out on one of the best photosynthesis labs available. Here’s how to do it. The equipment and supplies needed are inexpensive, simple, and readily available. Materials Syringes, 5 cc or Larger Desk Lamps with 18- to 23-W Fluorescent or LED Bulbs Plastic Straws […]
Using Aquatic Plants to Demonstrate Photosynthesis
Introduction Egeria densa, also known as Elodea densa because of its previously incorrect classification in the Elodea genus, is the most popular aquatic plant used to teach photosynthesis in the classroom. Originally from Brazil, E. densa has spread to temperate regions on all of the continents except Antarctica. Known for its bright green color and leafy stems, E. densa is an excellent oxygenating […]
Investigating Phenomena: How Can the Sun Set at Midnight?
Carolina Phenomenon Phenomena-driven science! Phenomena are observable, naturally occurring events that are everywhere and spark student questions and investigations. Ask students to observe the DCI-linked phenomena in the video and complete the attached student sheet prior to remote learning discussions. Observations: Carefully watch the sun at midnight video. Gather all the evidence you can from […]
A Brief Overview of Gravity and Gravitational Force
An introduction to Newton’s Law of Gravitation, specetime geometry, and quantum gravity. Gravity The word gravity has many definitions. As defined by dictionary.com, gravity means “the force of attraction by which terrestrial bodies tend to fall toward the center of the earth,” or “heaviness or weight,” or “serious or critical nature,” among other definitions (Dictionary.com, […]
Earth and Space Sciences in All Science Courses
Earth and space science concepts can be incorporated into biology, chemistry, and physics. What are Earth and space sciences? Earth and space sciences, an interdisciplinary course of study, applies the principles of physics, chemistry, and biology to explain observed interactions among Earth’s four primary systems–the biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere–while recognizing Earth’s place in space […]