Science and Student Choice

This term I have had more of a science focus for my ESOL students. We have previously looked at STEM Challenges where students work co operatively to solve the problem. We still sometimes do STEM challenges but we are looking more at Science based food activities and Science exploration experiments. Students can discuss their observations and draw/write what they think and see. This has increased collaboration, communication and older students coaching younger ones. Using strengths in reading and writing to support younger students encourages tukana-teina as well.

They have loved the food based activities done in the past and asked for more of these. I found out about The Kitchen Science Cookbook on Twitter and decided to incorporate these as they fitted with our school's Science focus.

Although I focus on all students learning I am looking at Molly for my priority learner. She is new to our school this year and has confidence but chooses not to take risks in areas she feels less confident in.  She has really enjoyed our Science and cooking activities and her Mother has connected through Seesaw which is wonderful.

So, what now? I will continue to incorporate Science into our ESOL program during the term and also continue to give students choice about the direction of their own learning where ever possible.