Week 2 Blog - Elementary Science Methods (Addyson Junge)

Week 2 Blog - Elementary Science Methods (Addyson Junge)

January 25, 2025

Figure 1

1. What did you learn this week?
    • During lab and lecture, we dove more into the NGSS, characteristics of living things, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration. When talking about the NGSS, we made sure to identify what parts seemed confusing for us and practiced finding a specific standard for Life Science grade 2. In our lab groups, we made a poster containing the characteristics of living things with examples (Figure 1). One other thing we talked about in our lab section was how to create a scientific argument. Switching gears to the lecture, we discussed the needs of plants and animals and how they are different. Dr. You explained the differences between photosynthesis and cellular respiration. We also learned about the stages of metamorphosis and the life cycle.
2. Are you able to relate what you learned to what you already knew?
    • I can relate the characteristics of living things to what I already know. Prior to this class, I did not know what NGSS, but after covering it last week, I feel more confident using and exploring it in the future. As far as creating arguments, I already knew how to create a solid argument with evidence. I am able to relate what I learned about the needs of plants and animals as well as the life cycle. It was good to get a refresher on photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and metamorphosis. 
    3. How can you apply what you've learned to your teaching in the future?
    • After learning about the content, I love the idea of using hands-on experiences to enhance learning. During the lab, we did two activities where our table groups worked together to create a diagram (Figure 1) and planted seeds (Figure 2). Using the NGSS, I can create lessons where doing these activities would be beneficial for any student. 
Figure 2


Comments

  1. Megan SimonFebruary 2, 2025 at 11:42 AM

    Hi Addy! I love that you talked about using hands on learning in the classroom. As a student, this was always helpful to retain what I learned in class because I was able to reflect on my actions in the classroom. I even remember planting seeds as a first grade student. This is definitely an activity I plan to use with my future students. After learning how to better navigate the NGSS, I also feel more confident in doing so independently. I think this is a great resource, not only for class, but for teachers as well. I am happy to know that my hometown state also uses the NGSS. Great post!

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  2. Alex DickFebruary 2, 2025 at 3:45 PM

    Hi Addy! I loved the examples of turtles for the different characteristics of living things! I agree that using that activity in a future classroom would be great, and that it could easily be created using the NGSS! I totally agree about being more confident navigating the NGSS, and I hope we'll get even better at using it as we continue the class.

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