ERIC Number: EJ778966
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Nov
Pages: 3
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8148
EISSN: N/A
The Early Years: Science Tickets
Ashbrook, Peggy
Science and Children, v45 n3 p18-20 Nov 2007
Teachers can spark interest in a science topic by using "science tickets"--special objects offered to children as a way to transition to the science room or into a small group to do a science activity. Objects ranging from ordinary (shells, leaves, or sticks) to unusual (photos, crystals, or plastic worms) appeal to young children's curiosity and can stimulate small group discussions, providing a forum for sharing discoveries while developing language. The idea of "science tickets" works best when it is used every time a teacher begin a planned science activity, particularly one not initiated by the students, so children become familiar with the format. "Science tickets" must be interesting objects that easily fit in a hand, be fairly durable, and relate to the upcoming or ongoing activity. Offering "science tickets" is also a way to: (1) Assess prior knowledge as you listen to the children talk; (2) Build or make connections background knowledge; (3) Give each student the stage just a few minutes; and (4) Introduce or repeat vocabulary words. (Contains 1 resource.)
Descriptors: Science Activities, Visual Learning, Teaching Methods, Visual Stimuli, Early Childhood Education, Learning Activities
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A