Module 1 Section 4

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Section #4: Science Topics for Module 1 - Gravity and Other Forces in STEM

An important aspect of this course for K-8 educators is a basic review of STEM. In Module 1 we are going to explore gravity and other forces in nature. It should be noted that this is an introduction and not comprehensive review of science. Articles and other resources are included here to help increase your conception of the science explored in this module.

Key Terms in Science:
By the end of this science review you should be able to define, discuss and apply the following key terms within your educational practice:
gravity, velocity, speed, friction, mass, force, resistance, rate of speed

What is gravity and how does it influence our lives? As illustrated in the following video, the answer to this question depends on your point of view.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcUey-DVYjk (Links to an external site.)

In addition to the video above, I have included short articles and other resources to help you review gravity below:

NSTA Article: What is gravity? – Article Link

NSTA Lessons: Evaluating the Egg Drop – Article Link

NGSS Equip Science Curriculum Rubric – Article Link

Utah SEEd (Search for: Gravity) – SEEd LinkW (Links to an external site.)

In addition to gravity, there are other fundamental forces we will teaching about in K-12 education as well. Below you will find a video review of forces in nature and several articles we will be discussing in class during Module 1:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_Uo7RufH4c (Links to an external site.)

Will, M. (22 May, 2018). Early grade science: The first key STEM opportunity. edWeek: Link (Links to an external site.)
(Links to an external site.)NSTA Lesson: Gravity Racers - Article Link
Link

2 Minute Classroom (05 Aug, 2018). Speed, velocity and acceleration. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jyiw6KkedDY (Links to an external site.)

Science Curriculum Search
Explore the science curriculum in the Utah SEEd standards. Search for: force, acceleration, speed, velocity, friction and resistance. What did you find at the grades you want to teach? We will be discussing this in more detail in class. As an extension, compare Utah's science standard with the science curriculum in another state you might want to teach in. The link for Utah's SEEd is here: Link (Links to an external site.)

Reflection QuestionsAfter gravity and other forces in nature, consider these reflection questions:

How can you teach the concept of gravity and force at the grade level of students you want to work with?
What misconceptions might your students have about gravity and other forces?
How would you connect your lessons on gravity and other forces to your students lives? How do you make your lesson real for your students?

Edtech & AI ChallengeAfter viewing the videos and reading the articles, use your favorite AI Program to write a summary of the following prompts:

Have the AI program create list of 5-8 (you decide) key vocabulary words and definitions of gravity and other forces we have studied that could be turned into an infographic or flashcard set.
Write a list of 3 misconceptions children have about gravity and other forces we have been studying in this section and include a 20-40 word summary of each misconception.
Create a list of four 20-30 minute) class experiments elementary children can do at your grade level can do in your classroom with a brief 30-50 word summary of each activity written as a mini-lesson.

Did the vocabulary words, misconceptions, and experimental activities match what we have been learning in class? Do you have any different ideas or strategies on teaching about gravity and other forces to children?