Reading and Writing in the Science Classroom

Target Grade(s): 5-12

Overview:

Discuss and analyze the ways that literacy and science connect in the science classroom and highlight how reading and writing can be used to increase students' understanding of science content. Focus on how to integrate important literacy skills in your science classroom. Cutting-edge strategies and well-founded principles pave the way to success with non-fiction reading material. The manner in which information and scientific content is presented shapes student success, not just for reading but student writing, organization and presentation.

Course Objectives:

• Make observations of the types of lessons/tasks that require literacy in the science class.
  
  
• Use and analyze the scientific method as a vehicle for literacy instruction.
  
  
• Incorporate NASA data into regular classroom instruction.
  
  
• Adopt inquiry and technology-based teaching and learning strategies and successfully implement them in the classroom.

Course Outline & Assignments:

Session 1: Topic: Introduction to Content Area Literacy

Session 2: Topic: Inquiry and Literacy

Session 3: Topic: Using books in the science curriculum

Session 4: Topic: Adolescent Literacy in the United States