"Learning Cycle: Investigative Labs for Middle School Science" by Walter L. Saunders
	Quantity in Basket: None Price: Price: $15.95 Shipping Weight: 1.00 pounds
	Quantity:
ISBN 1-58939-373-2. $15.95. Softcover. 108 Pages. This resource book is intended for experienced middle school science teachers who are seeking ways to incorporate a more student centered approach to investigative lab activities. New teachers can also benefit from this manual. This resource book is based upon a teaching philosophy known as the Learning Cycle. In the Learning Cycle (LC) model of teaching science, students work together in groups of three or four with limited teacher guidance, to develop lab procedures for the investigation of questions which can be studied in the laboratory or field. The science concept under investigation is usually introduced through a discussion/brainstorming session involving the whole class (Technical vocabulary is usually delayed until after students have completed their investigations). Working in small groups, students focus on a specific question. They design and carry out procedures for collecting data and report their findings to the whole class. Class results are discussed and summarized during the group reporting process. Concept reinforcement follows the reporting/discussion sessions. This book contains two parts. Part One contains 26 Learning Cycle lab activities which have been field tested in Utah classrooms. Part Two consists of appendices on teaching strategies, classroom management suggestions and selected research references. The Learning Cycle activities in Part One (Lesson Plans) are designed to help students apply the scientific method to their studies of science concepts. The suggestions in Part Two will help teachers make the transition from the traditional, teacher- centered approach to a more student centered approach. This transition can be easy, fun, and almost "painless" if done slowly, carefully and consistently. While this resource book is especially suited for seventh and eighth grade science teachers who have completed the Integrated Science Program at Utah State University, all science teachers can use the materials in this book to bring about a more student centered, investigative approach to science learning. Two to four days are devoted to a typical LC. Skills acquired through this method include communicating (oral and written), applying the processes of science, (e.g. the scientific method), acquiring science content knowledge, and learning the social skills necessary for collaborative activities in society. The LC model can provide students with "real world" scientific inquiry experiences, and embodies the elements of "Full Inquiry" as depicted in the National Science Education Standards. Login to review this product