Presentation Transcript

1. Demonstrations Shifa Bhatti

2. What Is a demonstration? • “A demonstration is a concrete experience that invites scientific talk and argument.” • Proposes • “uncover student misconceptions” • “illuminate key concepts and principles” • “lead to heightened interest and further inquiry” (Chiappetta & Koballa, 2010, p. 186)

3. Planning a demonstration • Gather materials and equipment in advance • Visibility • Demonstration components should be visible to be impactful • Test visibility yourself from various positions in the classroom • Good lighting • Effective • Students must grasp concept

4. Planning a demonstration • Keep students focused • Start with empty table, take materials from box as needed • Hide items from view until demonstration begins • Appealing to maintain interest • Practice • Keep extra materials on hand • Plan what questions to ask to guide student learning

5. Presenting a Demonstration • Student centered • Effective presentation • Guided questions • Organize in parts • Introduction, presentation, conclusion • Introduction • Establish purpose (simple), materials and procedures explained • Position-driven: present materials/apparatus and allow students to predict what will happen during the procedure, ideally students will have several responses

6. Presenting a Demonstration • Procedure • Logical, organized, rapid • Ask questions • Repeat steps if necessary to clear confusion or disagreements in response to questions • Teacher or students summarize every so often • Involve students when possible/necessary

7. Presenting a Demonstration • Conclusion • New understanding constructed • “[engage] students in a guided discussion of the application of the concept or principle to everyday life” • Be prepared to assist with examples if needed • Ask questions to challenge and stimulate student thinking • Don’t talk too much—let your students speak (Chiappetta & Koballa, 2010, p. 189)

8. Research Says: • You’ll get better at demonstrations the more you practice (duh?) because: • You’ll become a better teacher • You’ll gain more content knowledge Resource: Chiappetta, E.L., Koballa, T. R. (2010). Science instruction in the middle and secondary schools (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. Project ICAN: http://msed.iit.edu/projectican/