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Thinking Like a Scientist focuses on high-interest, career-related topics in the elementary curriculum related to science
List of contents
Introduction Preassessment Unit 1: What Do Scientists Do? Lesson 1.1: What Does a Scientist Look Like? Lesson 1.2: What Is a Scientist? Lesson 1.3: Project: Scientific Careers Unit 2: What Is the Scientific Method? Lesson 2.1: Observing Mystery Objects Lesson 2.2: Evaluating Hypotheses Lesson 2.3: Evaluating Data Lesson 2.4: Evaluating Types of Graphs and Charts Lesson 2.5: Transformed "Floating Leaf Disk" Lab Unit 3: What Is the Role of Evidence? Lesson 3.1: Analyzing Claims Lesson 3.2: Theories Are Like Puzzles Lesson 3.3: Uncovering Misconceptions Unit 4: What Is Critical Thinking? Lesson 4.1: Using the I2 Strategy Lesson 4.2: Deep Thinking Using Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning Lesson 4.3: Project: Making Models of Earth Motions Lesson 4.4: Project: Engineering a Boat Unit 5: Putting Scientific Skills to Use Lesson 5.1: Project: Solar Oven Construction Lesson 5.2: Project: Testing in Terrariums Lesson 5.3: Project: Working in Research Teams Postassessment Answer Key References About the Author Next Generation Science Standards Alignment
About the author
The Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary, a research and development center, was established in 1988 under the direction of Dr. Joyce VanTassel-Baska. The center provides services to educators, policy makers, graduate students, researchers, parents, and students in support of the needs of gifted and talented individuals. Located in Williamsburg, VA, the center has established a national reputation for excellence in research, curriculum development, and service. Several major grants, including funding from the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Act, have provided significant support for the work of the Center.
Summary
Thinking Like a Scientist focuses on high-interest, career-related topics in the elementary curriculum related to science. Students will explore interdisciplinary content, foster creativity, and develop higher order thinking skills with activities aligned to relevant content area standards. Through inquiry-based investigations, students will explore what scientists do, engage in critical thinking, learn about scientific tools and research, and examine careers in scientific fields. Thinking Like a Scientist reflects key emphases of curricula from the Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary, including the development of process skills in various content areas and the enhancement of discipline-specific thinking and habits of mind through hands-on activities.
Grade 5
