FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE YOUR SCIENCE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

ACTIVITY

As you think about some of you earlier childhood curiosity, try to recall some of your earlier experiences with science.

1. As a child, what were your experiences with science?

2. What was your experience with the natural world?

3. What do you recall about your first exposure to science?

4. Recall some science events from your elementary classrooms?

5. What did you like about science?

6. What didn't you like about science?

7. Draw a picture of a scientist. Compare your drawing with that of someone else. Describe your drawing to them.

8. Discuss two reasons that teachers need to teach science to K-8 students.

9. What do you think K-5 students would say if you ask them "What is science?"

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**In a study done by Fraser-Abder, 2005 with over 4,000 teachers, parents, and students, the common definitions of science were:

     Science is . . .

• the constant search for answers about the universe around us

• the study of life and nature

• divided into many different areas - biology, chemistry, physics, etc.

• gathering data and then analyzing it

• the study of the world and how it all fits together

• experimentation

• the process of inquiry; the curiosity to explore, to solve problems, and to verify information