Bringing Science Down to Earth

"Teachers must create opportunities for family involvement at school and encourage support at home," Jocelyn Young told Education World. "I created my Web site to assist parents and students with the science curriculum. Convincing parents or guardians to take a more active role in their student's learning has opened valuable lines of communication."

Are You a Web Wizard? If you're a teacher who would like to see the school or classroom Web site you've created featured in WebWizard, please e-mail the site's URL and your contact information to WebWizard@educationworld.com

The purpose of Mrs. Young's Web Site is to extend the science learning environment of Young's sixth and eighth graders. Young believes that science does not occur in a vacuum within the science classroom, rather it extends into daily life. Her Web site comes to the aid of students with pages that include Essential Study Skills for Science Students, How to Be Successful in Class, and educational links for Earth science and Physical science topics.

"The Science Interactive Notebook is designed to help students stay organized and learn material better in science class," Young explained. "That page is based on our understanding of the functions of the left and right hemispheres of the brain in relation to how students learn. Each student organizes his or her science class work into a spiral notebook using the right and left pages for appropriate tasks."

Young's favorite page is filled with Pictures of her family. "The students love to see pictures of my little girl," said Young. "I think the students are surprised that I have a life outside the classroom!" One of Young's students commented, "I love to look at the pictures; for me it was so cool to know that you're open with your students when it comes to your life outside of school. We actually got to know you and relate to you.” Parents also have responded positively to the Web site. They appreciate that they can access daily and weekly homework assignments online.

With many exciting plans for the future of her class home page, Young has only just begun. "I continually learn new and exciting ways to enhance the Web site," she said.

Article by Cara Bafile
Education World®
Copyright © 2002 Education World