Practical Science - January 12, 2017

I am continuing my guest teaching adventure as we move into 2017 and my first stop was Practical Science.  This is a class for students who require more modifications and accommodations than can be provided in a general education class.  However, the class does follow the Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards - just in a more modified way.  I was excited to work with Ms. Schmitt and these energetic scientists.

The students had been learning about matter and how matter can change due to chemical reactions.  On the day that I got to guest teach, we were going to complete a cool chemical reaction lab where we combine to chemicals to make flubber!  I knew the students would love it.  They had to first make observations about each chemical and record them on a chart.  Then they worked with a partner to combine them and watch the chemical reaction turn the liquids into flubber.

The students were great scientists, offering answers and following along.  They were excited to show me what they knew and to complete the experiment.  They worked very well as partners, each helping the other and encouraging them.  They were responsible workers and were amazed to see two liquids turn into a slimy solid.

The Practical Science class is small, only 9 students.  I was able to check in on each pair of students and talk with each of them.  This is valuable in a hands-on class like science.  It is obvious why other teachers wish they had smaller class sizes and were able to work more one-on-one with students.  These particular students were inquisitive, respectful, and responsible for their work.  I was impressed with how they cleaned up after the lab and helped each other, even if they weren't in the same group.  Just a great group to work with!