How Do I Use Trade Books to Teach and Learn Science?
Trade books from all academic disciplines paint an inviting atmosphere for teaching and learning science. While the science textbooks ascribe to educational standards, trade books allow for more in-depth discovery. Science trade books highlight pertinent information for educators, provide an avenue for research and open paths for learning through a variety of modalities.
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Preparation for Teaching
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As our technology expands, scientific discoveries multiply. Secondary school science teachers stay abreast of these discoveries through trade books as well as electronic media. Since elementary teachers have to be competent in teaching all disciplines, nonfiction science trade books are quick-reads for reconnecting with information of a given science field. Additionally, reading a student age-appropriate book helps teachers adjust science vocabulary to the students' understanding.
Participatory Set For Learning
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Set the stage for discussion by reading aloud a short piece of fiction or an illustrated book. A book set in the rain forest piques younger students' interests in the indigenous animals and discussions lead to comparing and contrasting the animals' attributes. For older students, the same book facilitates avenues for animal classification and rain-forest environmental issues. Read a short excerpt from a nonfiction book and pose open-ended questions that require students to use critical thinking to voice scientific support for their answers.
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Research
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Nonfictional trade books provide an inviting avenue for diversifying research assignments for all students. Low-reading-ability students gather information by studying diagrams and tables while the advanced students read in-depth information. Tactile learners benefit from a hands-on approach when trade books have designs and art for them to recreate or generate ideas to enhance their research. Science information presented through rhyme engages the students' creative thinking and generates a research product with more depth.
Enhancement
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Students' natural curiosity leads to learning when trade books are accessible in a classroom. Use cross-curricula nonfictional books for the students to comprehend how the sciences intertwine with current geographical, economic and political issues. Well-illustrated books capture students' interests and also allow English Language Learners opportunities to comprehend the content. Fictional books with scientific themes encourage students to delve into the facts behind the fiction. The trade books model ways for students to showcase research by producing their own book products.
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References
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