Tag Archives: handouts

Become a Better Science Teacher: Teacher Tuneups from SciGen

ABE, HSE, Pre-HSE, Science, ,
Word Generation Science
· Appropriate for: Building teacher background knowledge · Available: Texts/Readings · Readiness: Resources can be used as they are · Engagement: 2 = engaging

One of the biggest challenges for HSE prep teachers is helping students master the science concepts they need to pass the GED.  For instance, students need to understand cell biology, and the fact that one of the main functions of DNA is to make proteins (something I did not realize until recently).  They need to know the basics of genetics, photosynthesis, evolution, cell specialization, ecosystems…the list goes on, and that’s just Life Science.  There are also many concepts related to space science, earth science, physics, and chemistry that may be tested.  That’s not only a lot to ask of students; it’s a lot to ask of teachers.  We are already literacy and social studies experts…now we must be science experts too?

Yes, we do.

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Ted-Ed Videos: A Great Resource for both Classroom and Distance Learning

ABE, ESOL, HSE, Pre-HSE, Reading, Science, Social Studies, Writing, ,
Ted Ed: Lessons Worth Sharing
· Appropriate for: Building teacher background knowledge, Use in class, For student independent work · Available: Lessons, Videos · Readiness: Resources can be used as they are · Engagement: 2 = engaging

In the brave new world of distance learning, many of us are searching for digital lessons to use with students.  A good source is Ed.Ted.Com: Lessons Worth Sharing.  

You have probably heard of Ted Talks, the series that delves into the latest discoveries and thinking in all kinds of hot topics—how the economy works, what consciousness is, and so much more.  You may not know about the Ted Ed video series, designed to teach key academic concepts in short (usually five minutes or so) animated videos that are both highly engaging and informative.  The videos run the gamut.  

A sample of videos under “History”
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Improve your Science Literacy Game in Minutes: Educator Resources from the American Museum of Natural History

ABE, ESOL, HSE, Pre-HSE, Reading, Science, ,
American Museum of Natural History: Integrating Literacy Strategies into Science Instruction
· Appropriate for: Building teacher background knowledge, Knowledge of teaching · Available: Videos, Hands On Activities · Readiness: Resources can be used as they are · Engagement: 3 = very engaging

As ABE/HSE teachers, we face the continual dilemma of so much to teach, and so little time to teach it—that is why it makes sense for us to teach literacy strategies in the process of helping students acquire content knowledge.  One of the main ways we can do this is through reading.

The Integrating Literacy Strategies into Science Instruction series from the American Museum of Natural History is a very helpful tool for this purpose.  The series consists of videos, 5-10 minutes in length, on particular reading strategies—paraphrasing, summarizing, read alouds, vocabulary, and interactive reading guides—that are accompanied by the tools used along with the videos.

Continue reading Improve your Science Literacy Game in Minutes: Educator Resources from the American Museum of Natural History →