Based on the earlier observations I made and seeing the debate
in action, I see that the
classroom had been
intentionally set up
in such a way that student voice was not only celebrated, but
used to create more opportunities for students to grow and be successful.
Although schools can access and
use gratitude curriculum, parents and teachers can model showing gratitude at home and
in the
classroom by noticing when others — adults or kids —
intentionally help others.
Participants engaged with materials and activities
in whole group and small groups that demonstrate that science lessons can be richer, deeper learning experiences when we, 1) slow down the process and provide repeated experience over time with key concepts (e.g., observing and exploring ingredients one day; making play dough another day), 2) incorporate language and literacy into science explorations
intentionally (e.g.,
using informational texts;
using visual aids and key words
in DLL children's home language), and 3) connect science to other content areas and provide extension activities that continue conceptual learning across time and across the
classroom (e.g., measurement with ingredients; discussing other types of mixtures during snack time).