My View on Science

"Helping students creatively communicate Science Literacy in a digital environment." Mr. Westbroek

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

Albert Einstein

I expect students to stretch their thinking as they explore our world.  Classes are based on critical thinking and problem solving - not rote memorization.  Throughout each course, students are given problems to solve; including labs and activities.  Students use scientific materials and equipment to explore how scientists work.  Students actively participating enjoy the class and demonstrate their understanding of scientific concepts and principals on the Utah State Criterion Referenced Test at year’s end.

1. •7th Grade Science is discussed on the Sci 7 Blog and has Benchmarks for each Unit.
   

2. •Biology is discussed on the Bio Blog and also has Benchmarks for each Unit.
   

Google sponsors the “Google Science Fair.” Biology students working for Honors Credit should complete this option. Everyone else is invited to participate. Good luck and may you win great prizes!

I hope to help you enjoy learning science this year. Parents are invited to visit before school or to visit class.

Fun links:

1. Take the Pew / Smithsonian Science and Technology quiz. How STEM smart are you?
   

2. One of my favorite sites is “The Yuckiest Site on the Internet.” Check it out and see if you agree.
   

3. Discovery Education and Intel created Curiosity in the Classroom to encourage students, parents, and teachers to consider some of life’s biggest questions.
   

4. For Girls in Science provides opportunities to learn about women scientists and their contributions.
   

5. Visit Wonderville to learn more about our World and beyond.
   

6. Have you explored National Geographic for Kids?
   

7. Explore the microscopic world at MicroAngela.
   

8. Howard Hughes Medical Institute provides “Cool Science for Curious Kids”
   

9. If you have science questions see if they are answered on the WHYZZ website!
   

10. The Middle School Student’s Guide to Ruling the World! has hints and suggestions on how to manage your work and be organized this year.
    

11. Wonderopolis - learn about things that made you wonder! For example ... “Why do some eggs have 2 yolks?”
    

12. What have you wondered about? Find more answers at “Did you ever wonder?”
    

13. Use Nexplore to find age appropriate answers for your search.
    

14. Examine the Scale of the Universe to put things we study into perspective.
    

15. Check out Fact Monster for factoids you can impress family and friends with.
    

16. Explore Newton’s Laws of Motion as it relates to autos.
    

17. A great research place to start is the Internet Public Library / Librarian’s Internet Index.