UtSTA 2024: Out-Of-This-World Science Teaching

In this session, we will look at ways to support students in observing, connecting with and communicating science concepts. For learners whose expressive language is in formative stages, drawing provides another, rich method of solidifying and communicating what they are seeing and noticing. It taps into visual, kinesthetic and linguistic processes. Observational drawing teaches students to focus on details and make comparisons with similar concepts.
As instructors, it provides a window into student thinking affording us opportunities for informal assessment. In addition to scientific drawing, arts integration will include examples of drama, song and movement.

Attendees will develop a greater understanding of the role of scientific/observational drawing in learning and memory.They will explore ways to support classroom observation and communication. Hands-on exposure to phenomenon and direct observation are powerful motivators for students.

Practical ways to engage with relevant phenomena using the K-2 SEEd Standards will be presented.

Looking at 1st grade SEEd standard 1.3 Light and Sound, we will show how to get your kindergarteners and 1st graders involved through hands on rotations. Even though this is focused on a 1st grade SEEd standard we will show you how you can implement this in your kindergarten class. We will explore the cause and effect relationship between sound and vibrations, the effect of light on objects, effect of materials in the path of a beam of light, and more. We hope to leave everyone with ideas that they can do implement in their own classes.  

Have you ever wondered about the miracle of plants? Scientists have studied plants for years and have discovered the unique characteristics various diversities of plants offer our world, including why humans need them for survival. In this presentation, teachers will discover similar patterns plants and humans need to live. Then, using the information they gathered, they will investigate why and how plants affect human existence. Teachers will learn how to use their knowledge from this session to teach this phenomenon to their students.
The presentation uses Strand K.2: Living things and their surroundings, Strand 1.2: The needs of living things and their offspring, and Strand 2.2: Living things and their habitats. We will focus on patterns, structure, function, communication, and investigation.

Utah's Hogle Zoo is working on updating their field trip program to provide more educational opportunities for students. Learn how  these updates will help reach SEEd standards through engaging new activities provided by staff and resources that tie in what is learned at the zoo to what you can do in your classroom.