SCIE-6661S-1
Exploring the Physical World---Week 6
21st
Century Topics and Tools
A topic in physical science that must be learned so
it can be built upon is kinetic theory. What is kinetic theory you may ask?
According to Webster’s Dictionary it is a theory that the
temperature of a substance increases with an increase in either the average
kinetic energy of the particles or the average potential energy of separation
(as in fusion) of the particles or in both when heat is added —called also kinetic theory of heat.
Concepts like these can be hard
for middle school students to learn. Utilizing tools that excite and interest
students can make the learning seem fun and not so much like work. From my own
experience I have found that my students enjoy creating projects online. In the
past few years the media tools available to students and teachers has improved immensely.
Things that excite students
help them focus on the learning, resources like Prezi
(a new free online presentation tool) allows students to create and learn at
the same time. Exposure to this type of media helps students as they prepare to
enter the work force, technology is integrated into many jobs and exposure to
tools like Prezi
will make them better prepared.
As students address the kinetic
theory it’s important to establish what they already know. The use of Prezi can assist in this
process. This tool has an option that allows students to create a mind map, and examples to help students with
their ideas. Mind mapping prior knowledge of the kinetic theory would be a good
place to start. Using a presentation format for prior knowledge allows students
to discuss what they know and share ideas. It can be an opportunity to share
correct knowledge and address incorrect information. However with the
introduction of any new technology a period of learning and adjustment must be considered,
for students and teacher. Many tools like Prezi offer tutorials to
assist in the preparation and use of the program. I find those tutorials to be
helpful not only for myself but for my students.
References
Alessio. (2011, April 1). Kinetic
Theory Resources. [Blog message]. Retrieved from http://blog.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/2011/04/326/
Kinetic Theory. (n.d.). In
Merriam-Webester’s online dictionary. Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kinetic%20theory
