Developed by Hilary Sharp-Baker: April 2005.
Sharp Science, copyright 2005, Hilary Sharp-Baker all rights
reserved.
Introduction:
This
curriculum came about because I love science and feel it is an important part
of a well-rounded education.When it came time for me to teach my
elementary-aged child, I assumed, incorrectly, that there would be a wide
variety of materials available. Elementary-aged children have a natural
aptitude for scientific inquiry, which needs to be encouraged, nurtured and
stimulated. The materials I found for young children were either too
simplistic, too difficult or too involved.
While
looking for materials, I had many conversations with parents and elementary
level teachers. The message I
heard repeatedly was that teaching science was overwhelming because it was too
hard, boring, or because the teacher did not like science or, did not feel
“smart” enough. I believe that this general fear, dislike and loathing of
science stemmed in part form the type of instruction they had received as
students.
My
main goal in developing this curriculum was to lower the threshold for parents
and teachers so that they will not only want to teach science, but will enjoy
it! Yes, really! Through a combination of good books, exciting demonstrations,
crafts and other activities I hope to introduce you to the world of science.
You and your student(s) may even discover that you already know some of the
topics and concepts addressed.
The
lessons in SharpSciene cover a
wide range of topics including: scientific method, states of matter, the
properties of water, specific gravity, plants, insects, birds and mammals. The
recommended books are available at local libraries or through inter-library
loan. The materials for the demonstrations, activities and crafts are common
items found in and around your home or are available at craft and hobby stores.
The
curriculum is very flexible with only an occasional seasonal lesson. For
instance, you will need to teach the lesson on autumn leaves in the autumn so
that you can observe, collect and study leaves. Each lesson has several
activities to choose from so you can adapt the lesson to your student’s needs
and inclination. Use the curriculum one day a week or spread out the lesson
over a longer period.
In
the lesson plans, I talk about the student or your student and refer
to the student as her. This is
merely a literary device to help me be consistent in my verb use etc. All the
lesson plans follow the following format:
v Book title
v Summary
v Scientific concept (s)
v Learning objective(s)
v Anticipatory set or demonstration
v Detailed procedure (s)
v Activities
v Materials and Equipment
v References and Supplemental Materials
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