4 Ways to Make Something Abstract Kid-Friendly

During this last week, I went to a museum with my kids and saw this solar clubhouse.

This is clearly a clubhouse made for younger kids, but it is focused on solar energy. I think the size and look of it is immediately inviting to kids, and then when they walk in, the parts are labelled, and explained in fairly simple language. My 6 year old didn't understand all of it but was very interested to read and try to understand. How can we bring this experience to the classroom?

I think we need to keep a few lessons in mind:

1) Size. The size of examples and demonstrations, etc., can really change how it is perceived. 

2) Accessibility, and initial appearance. This is small, at eye level, brightly colored, etc

3) Relevance. Because its a clubhouse, and the examples are plugging in a light or tv, it is more understandable. 

4). This is all done without lowering the level of content. The concepts being explained are still complex and not oversimplified. 

What else do you see that you can take away from that example?  How can we bring this into our classrooms?  I think these are principles that we know, but often lose track of while teaching "curriculum"

Anything you have done that is a good example of this kind of teaching?  Or anything you've seen? 

Thanks! 

Can I Use a Pass? Printable Freebie For You

In my classroom, students always ask for passes, often when you are in the middle of
teaching, or at a time that they should not be able to go.

To try to help alleviate this, I have made this “Can I Use a Pass?” sign. It can be posted in a few places in the classroom, and can answer many of those questions simply by pointing to it, and training students to check there before asking for a pass.

It is very simple, and could easily be modified to fit your needs, but the concept might help your classroom.  A good thing to keep in mind as you think about procedures and organization over the summer.

Hope it helps you!

Click here to get your copy

Two Great Resources for Freebies and Science Info

I am part of two events that I wanted to share with you.  Both are great timing as school is wrapping up for the summer, and we will likely spend at least a little bit of time this summer just browsing and reading up on related articles.

First of all, I am participating in a Facebook Frenzy Freebie Event. In this event, as you go to different Facebook pages, you get a variety of freebies.  It starts tomorrow, and goes through Monday.  Thanks to Creation Castle for hosting.  You can click on the image to go directly to it!

Secondly, I am participating in a blog hop of science blogs.  I have already found some great new science related blogs.  

One of my goals is to host a monthly linky on different topics.  Mrsharristeachs is hosting this, but wants to share the linky so that it can display on other blogs as well.  I am going to count this as my first one!