In-Person Science Classes at Science with Laura

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Each class starts with a review of the assigned chapter or topic, which provides essential class details. Occasionally, students will present prepared summaries to the class. After our review time, we dedicate time to answering chapter questions, ensuring a thorough understanding of the material. This review and discussion usually takes about half of our class time. The second half of our class is reserved for hands-on learning, where we complete an activity, game, group challenge, or experiment related to our topic in science education. When time and weather permit, we allow 10-15 minutes of free time at the end of class, provided all our activities are completed on schedule.

Learning often comes from teaching, which is why in all of my classes, I encourage students to engage in hands-on learning by preparing and teaching portions of the text to each other. Each year, I create a list of books related to science education that students can read at home. I encourage all students to choose books based on their interest, and they can earn class points for extra reading as well.

One of the things my students look forward to are the class activities and parties that enhance our science education. I usually plan a few class field trips based on interest and the topics covered for the school year. Past activities include going to the mountains with a telescope to look at the moon and constellations, a trip to the University of Utah earthquake lab, an escape room activity, and a trip to Timpanogas caves. 

I also like to incorporate hands-on learning through nature journaling, coloring books, poetry, and song writing into our classes. I've found that when I give opportunities for more creativity, my students surprise me in their abilities.

In high school, I do have tests and quizzes as part of the class details. As a college grad, I feel strongly that students need to be prepared for college entrance exams, and I want them to become comfortable with testing techniques to enhance their science education. 

Although I test high school students, I do not give them grades, but only feedback on their exams. If a parent wants grades, they will have to let me know. 

For my intermediate students, I encourage parents to provide their own testing if they feel it is helpful to their student. I also incorporate hands-on learning through fun review games to ascertain how well they have grasped the material.

High school students engage in hands-on learning through experiments every week, taking notes during that process. My middle school students also take notes in class during their experiments, where they learn how to create a simple lab report. Since these students are just beginning their journey in science education, I encourage them to use rulers for accurate lines, maintain neat handwriting, and write precise descriptions. Often, I will model on the whiteboard some basic class details they can include in their experiments to boost their confidence as they develop as writers and scientists.