5th graders have been immersed in the study of space and astronomy this week. One of today's activities included a debate about a science conspiracy theory. Science these days is subject to a lot of conspiracy theories and other notions that are not backed by scientific evidence, and it's important for students to be able to see the difference between science and conjecture/pseudo-science.
We started our discussion with the question, "Did America really land on the moon?" I polled the class on their opinion, and students indicated their degree of belief with their thumb (what I call their thumb-ometers). A thumbs up indicated the student is confident that America landed on the moon. A thumbs down is confident that America did not land on the moon. Anywhere in between indicated that the student is unsure, but may be leaning one way or another. I polled them regularly throughout the discussion, and students were encouraged to reassess what they think and perhaps change their thumb-ometer. After this first poll, students leaned toward believing that the moon landing happened. After getting students' initial opinion, I played a Youtube video that was peddling the conspiracy theory that we never landed on the moon, and the whole moon landing was actually created in a Hollywood studio. The short video cites a variety of supposed irregularities in the footage of the moon landing footage as their primary evidence, as well as discrediting the integrity of NASA. After the conspiracy theory video, I polled the kids again. Students now mostly indicated with their thumbs that they believed the conspiracy theory that we never landed on the moon. We spent a little time discussing this. Students shared their thoughts and opinions. Next, we watched part of an episode of Mythbusters that debunks the conspiracy theory with tests, recreations, logic, and other forms of solid evidence. I took another poll of the students. The students had now flipped their opinion again, and all of the students have now changed their opinion to a thumbs up. We discussed and debated our opinions again. So, how can we know what is true? We discussed this question next. Students realized the importance of being critical and skeptical. Is it possible to be too critical or critical of the wrong things? We discussed reputable sources backed by expertise and experts, reliable evidence supported by the scientific evidence, and makes sense beyond the surface. Ultimately, it's important for students to not just know scientific facts but to also have the tools to determine what evidence is reliable. Below is a picture of Finn demonstrating the thumb-ometer with a video still of the moon landing in the background. Science Fair
3/23/2018
Today was the science fair at PNA. All 5th grade students participated, and in all there were 43 projects. Students enjoyed the process of exploring something they have been curious about through the scientific method. Below are a few pictures from the last few days. |
Elizabeth FerryMs. Ferry's experiences include teaching with the Peace Corps in Tanzania, teaching high school English in Maine, and this is her second year at PNA. She loves moose, outdoor activities, and being with her students. Archives
April 2021
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