Using Scientific Research Articles as a Teaching Tool


By Srividhya Sundaram

How can I connect my students with the latest scientific research in an engaging, unforgettable way?  I have often wrestled with this question.  While some of my attempts to bring scientific research articles into my classroom have failed, there are others that do the job nicely.  In fact, a few efforts stand out!  That’s what I would like to share with you:  an effective way to use science articles as a tool that makes student comprehension more visible… and offers curious young minds a valuable peek into the world of research.

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Alien Fluids – An Online Activity


Alien Fluids Online Activity - Educational Innovations Blog

By Melanie Pearlman

It’s a scene you don’t often see in a science class: 13- and 14-year-olds flailing their arms about wildly like crazy aliens.  It’s only Day One of the activity and they’re hooked by the goofiness allowed.  That’s just one of the reasons why I look forward to my Alien Fluids unit every year.  It also really sharpens students’ investigative skills and calls on them to think critically and logically. 

But how was I to conduct this days-long experimentation activity remotely this year?

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