09-07-2010


 * __Student Conceptions in Science Education__**

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Earth/Space Science

__Why is Learning Science Important?__
 * Builds problem solving skills
 * Connect the content to current issues in science
 * Decision making based on evidence
 * Critical analysis of situations
 * Self-motivated and self-generating education
 * Challenging facts, both in science classes and outside the classes
 * Learn how the world around you works, why things happen
 * Learn everyday knowledge more in depth
 * Advancement and improvement of society
 * Science teaches core thought processes
 * Understand the progression of science and society, technology

__Characteristics of a Good Science Lesson__:
 * Student involvement - are the students active?
 * Achieving a balance between student-centered and teacher-centered
 * Encouraging students, building up self-esteem
 * Using the visual component of science lessons (i.e. demonstrations)
 * Allowing students to generate ideas instead of the teacher
 * Create relatable examples to the material
 * Encouraging learning the material instead of just facts
 * Coming back to the material immediately, apply it immediately
 * Relating to real-life examples or problems
 * Content knowledge?

__Characteristics of a Bad Science Lesson__:
 * Reading from a script
 * Not adequately preparing students for the lab
 * No improvisation
 * Poor organization
 * Not having students actively engaged
 * Not being excited about the material
 * Not relating the material to their prior knowledge or real experiences
 * No self-direction, cookbook labs
 * Not testing the lab beforehand
 * Not challenging students
 * Not being safe
 * Not relating to the material