Literacy in the Science Classroom

To me, literacy of a subject can mean several different things.  The word “literacy” itself is relatively vague to me, even though the definition of literacy is being able to read and write.  I think there is more to that term then just being able to read and write. If I had to define what it means, I would say that it’s the student’s ability to gain an understanding of the specific content they are studying.  It encompasses being able to read and write, but it also allows students to think critically and make connections to their daily lives.  This can be done in multiple different ways.

In the science classroom, a form of literacy would be student’s ability to ask questions and develop a way to answer those questions from prior knowledge.  Therefore, as a teacher you really need to build their background knowledge so that they can become more literate in science (able to understand science as a process).  Science classrooms should provide all students will opportunities to connect the science they are experiencing in the classroom to events in their lives.  Bridging the gap between the classroom and real life allows students to become more efficient in their understanding of science.

I believe strongly in learning by doing.  Science is not a subject full mundane facts, which many people think it is, its probably one of the most interactive subjects if utilized properly.  Literacy in science also incorporates lab skills and group work.  Students learn the importance of working on a team to achieve a common goal.  In labs, the students learn the importance of following directions.  Many times if the students don’t follow directions they will have an undesirable outcome, on which they can reflect.  I find it to be most beneficial to focus labs on things that students can relate to in some shape or form and create labs that are more inquiry based.  Clearly, students also learn science literacy through lecture, animations, writing papers, and doing research.

I read an article that addressed scientific literacy.  In this article, it stated that scientific literacy should empower students to:

·      Understand the basic concepts in the media and civic policy

·      Improve inquiry and critical thinking skills

·      Make connections about our interaction with the natural world

I agree with all of these statements and will create lessons that push these ideas

Website Reference:
Scientific Literacy