I recently found myself face-to-face with a giant tortoise. I was filming his eating behaviors in a field on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos Islands. I was there on assignment—not for a nature show, but for a group of 10-year-olds. Continue reading Strategy Share: Exploring the World Through Documentary Filmmaking
As student inquiry becomes a primary focus of social studies and science instruction, educators across the nation are designing lessons that challenge learners to ask and answer their own questions. Asking effective questions is a critical authentic skill, yet it can be challenging, especially for learners new to the inquiry process. Continue reading Strategy Share: Using Immersive Stimuli to Drive Student Inquiry
Shifting perspective, slowing down, and connecting to the greater world begins with us— educators who are also explorers. Remember: exploring includes finding ways to create classroom space for others to find magic as well. What are you waiting for, fellow #EducatorExplorers? Continue reading Strategy Share: Slow Down, Connect, and Flip Your Perspective
After ten years in the classroom, I can attest that children have a natural propensity for wonder. At the same time, I wholeheartedly believe it’s my responsibility to cultivate their curiosity and wonder. I do this by deliberately employing strategies and designing experiences that celebrate an inquisitive nature and build students’ confidence in wondering about the world. Below are two practical strategies I encourage you to try. Continue reading Strategy Share: Cultivating a Sense of Wonder with Early Elementary Students
Data can tell you an unexpected story. It can make you feel meaningfully connected to a place. And the best part is: anyone can do it. As ballistics expert Alex Jason said, “The difference between science and messing around is writing down your result.” Continue reading Strategy Share: What Data Can Teach You
