Learning Center

reading

Follow 4-step predictions in science

April 17, 2017

Follow 4-step predictions in science

Science reading involves questioning and predicting, wondering what will happen when certain elements are mixed or when force is applied. In order to cultivate this type of curiosity during reading, it’s important to get students in the habit of making predictions.

Utilize the 4-step prediction process when introducing a new unit concept or science principle.

Science: 4-Step Predictions - Teacher Resource

Step 1: Engage students in prediction activity

Before reading about the concept, provide a prediction activity for students to experience. Start with the curiosity piece to engage students in wanting to learn.

A prediction activity might be a demonstration, experiment, or a video clip. The point of the activity is to pique interest in the concept as to what will happen when the concept or principle is applied. But pause the demonstration, experience, or video clip just before the answer is revealed. Have students write down their predictions.

Step 2: Test out their predictions

Now complete the demonstration, experience, or video clip.

Step 3: Read the science text on same concept

Now, don’t invite students to discuss what they think—not yet! Without background knowledge, the only thing students can talk about at this point would be I think and What ifs. They don’t know why they were right or why they were wrong.

First they need to read about the science principle or concept that was in play. They’re motivated to discover facts to explain their experience.

Step 4: Discuss student predictions

Once they’ve read the text, now you engage the class in conversation. Now they talk about how and why their predictions were right or wrong—rooting their reasoning in science.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
CompCON 2024
Translate technical symbols to words

[reading]

Translate technical symbols to words

Improve comprehension of math word problems

[reading]

Improve comprehension of math word problems

Add editorial cartoons to science & social studies

[reading]

Add editorial cartoons to science & social studies