National Literacy Day!!!

Today, we focus on literacy. But wait, this is a science blog!!! So, how does literacy effect science education? We all remember being assigned chapters of text to read in science class and many of us actually read them! The unfortunate reality for many is that the average science textbook can be about as interesting to read as a VCR manual. This is especially true if one's reading skills are sub-par or one hasn't been shown the most effective ways to read and comprehend an "expository text". While fictions read in English and Literature classes offer a plethora of interesting stories, those bits of information presented in science textbooks tell an amazing tale of the richness and dynamic nature of scientific reality, albeit in dry and humorless fashion. As teachers, we should strive to make the information relatable to students and give them the tools to comprehend and use the information presented. Have you, as a science teacher, thought about implementing reading strategies into your lessons or methods? Since teachers do not generally have enough time to cover all the material they would like while in the classroom, this leaves them little choice but to assign reading to be taken home and completed solely by the student. This method is only effective if the students are able to effectively read and comprehend the text. Without the skills to do this, that textbook looks more and more like the manual above, not exactly thrilling. Take time today to look for ways to help improve your students' reading abilities as they will ultimately improve the students' overall academic performance in science and other subjects as well. Happy reading!

Links:
Question Answer Relationship Method
Promoting Critical Thinking with Science News