Lesson 3: Create a NYSSLS Lab
Objectives:[edit | edit source]
Learners will...
- Create a NYSSLS Lab on their unit plan topic.
- Engage in reflective practices and evaluate their teaching methods and instructional decisions.
Purpose
Following an anchoring phenomena introductory lesson could be an exploratory lab activity. This lab should be geared to answer questions students formed while engaging in the phenomenon lesson. During this lab activity, students should be exploring, investigating and reflecting on their learning. With students in control of their learning, teachers often play the role of the "wizard behind the curtain" when facilitating labs because they are responsible for orchestrating the learning experience, guiding students through the inquiry process, and ensuring that the objectives of the lab are met. Here are some reasons why teachers take on this role. By doing this, us as teachers create a dynamic learning environment where students can explore, discover, and learn through hands-on experiences in the lab.
Since teachers should sit into the role of a facilitator during labs, what is needed in NYSSLS labs to allow for student centered inquiry learning? Complete the assignment below to explore effective strategies and lab structures.
Assignment
Pick a lab topic that aligns to the phenomenon in lesson 1.
Explore these strategies of how to create a self-guided NYSSLS lab: EDUCASCIENCES
Recommended Structures: HyperDocs, listed procedures, WebQuests, Collaborative opportunities, etc.
Using Google Docs, create a lab on your chosen topic and title it with a question that students should ask from the phenomenon lesson.
Example: What causes sediment to move from one location to another?
Enter the completed lab link into your Unit Plan page under "Lesson 1"
Lesson Summary
NYSSLS aligned labs should follow the ideas of inquiry based learning, where students are in control and are given opportunities to explore concepts. Labs should be done by questions and geared to answer their questions. As facilitators during lab activities, the lab and expectations of students must be clear. It is essential these lab activities foster the following to allow for an effective learning experience:
Facilitating Inquiry: In a lab setting, teachers act as facilitators who guide students through the process of inquiry. They help students formulate questions, design investigations, make observations, analyze data, and draw conclusions. By providing guidance and support, teachers empower students to engage in authentic scientific inquiry and develop critical thinking skills.
Providing Structure and Support: Teachers create a structured environment in which students can explore scientific concepts and phenomena. They provide clear instructions, set expectations, and establish safety guidelines to ensure that the lab runs smoothly. Teachers also offer support and assistance to students as they navigate the challenges of the lab, helping them overcome obstacles and make meaningful discoveries.
Demonstrating Techniques and Procedures: Teachers demonstrate proper techniques and procedures for conducting experiments and using lab equipment. They model scientific practices such as careful observation, accurate measurement, and precise data recording, helping students develop the skills necessary for success in the lab. Lab safety is important.
Promoting Engagement and Participation: Teachers actively engage students in the lab by asking questions, encouraging discussion, and facilitating collaborative learning experiences. They create a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and exploring scientific concepts together. By fostering a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm, teachers promote active participation and engagement in the lab.
Assessing Learning Outcomes: Teachers assess students' understanding of scientific concepts and skills by observing their performance in the lab, reviewing their data and analyses, and evaluating their explanations and conclusions. They use formative assessment techniques such as questioning, observation, and feedback to monitor student progress and provide guidance for improvement.
Reflection Question
Please add to your reflective journal.
How do you have to change the way you "teach" labs when implementing NYSSLS? What are some strategies that come you used in your Lab to implement NYSSLS and inquiry?