Children are intrigued by switches that power a light source and by
items that reflect light and sparkle, and they take notice of personal
shadows cast on the playground. Many STEM fields draw upon understanding
of light and shadow, such as astronomy, biology, engineering,
architecture, and more. This book shows teachers how to engage children
(ages 3-8) with light and shadow in a playful way, building an early
foundation for the later, more complex study of these phenomena and
possibly piquing the curiosity of children that will ultimately lead to
professions within the field of STEM. The text offers guidance for
arranging the physical environment of classrooms, integrating literacy
learning and investigations, and building partnerships with
administrators.
Book Features:
- Offers well-researched, teacher-and-child-tested STEM experiences.
- Addresses the nuts and bolts of implementing a high-quality, inclusive
STEM curriculum.
- Focuses on four facets of the learning environment: cognitive,
social-emotional, physical, and promotional.
- Addresses the power of an integrative curriculum, especially between
STEM and literacy learning.
- Uses a framework of developmentally appropriate practice based on
constructivist principles and inquiry.
- Includes modifications and accommodations for diverse learners using
Universal Design for Learning.
- Offers guidance for establishing adult learning communities to support
professional development.
- Shows how to build partnerships with administrators.
- Aligns with both the Head Start Early Learning Objectives Framework
(ELOF) and the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices.
- Focuses on the development of students' engineering habits of mind
(systems thinking, optimism, creativity, communication, collaboration,
and attention to ethical considerations).
