making sense of science mike szydlowski k-12 science coordinator columbia public schools

Making Sense of Science

Mike SzydlowskiK-12 Science CoordinatorColumbia Public Schools

The NGSS focuses on the emphasis on the processes of science rather than accumulating facts.

Under NGSS, engineering will become more the rule than the exception.

In short, students will be expected to think and act like scientists and engineers, grasping increasingly complex concepts that have practical benefits in everyday life.

About NGSS…

Why Science?

Andrew Wakefield

2007

Jenny McCarthy started a campaign publicizing the autism/vaccination report after her son was born with autism. She encouraged people to stop getting vaccinations.

2008

2010Andrew Wakefield’s report was found to be

fraudulent. He had a financial conflict of interest to say what he did.

The science journals that published his report now published a retraction of all statements regarding vaccinations.

Jenny McCarthy continues to publicize the original report.

2014

Total 2008-2014

Two labels to think about

Information frame

Sense-making frame

Consider this science lesson…

Now consider this one…

Example: Photosynthesis

Which one was more engaging for students?

Which one required problem solving?

Food Color Activities

Ice Cream Activity

Halloween ScienceGrow a Ghost I

Grow a Ghost II

Halloween Readings

Lake Nyos What Killed 1,700 people and lots of animals?

Researching the Problem

Engineering