As I reflect on this lesson I can see room for improvement. It is engaging and

educational. However, I would have loved to use technology more. I know there is a

wealth of information available at my finger tips, but I have only so much time. My

life as a mom taking my two kids to their roller hockey practices, doing laundry, and

shopping and cooking have to fit in to my schedule too. I guess I could use an

assistant to look up web sites that might include games to be played on the computer,

more video clips and interactive activities. (Maybe I could pay my 13 year old son or

beg our computer teacher for extra help!)

Some other things I thought I could add would be a song about butterflies and

nature, or maybe a dance or hand show; like itsy bitsy spider. First graders love to sing

and dance.

One thing I did add this week was a Spring poem. I told the kids to reflect on the

butterflies. It incorporated the senses. I had them close their eyes and imagine a

beautiful Spring day. I asked them what they saw, touched, tasted, heard, and smelled.

Then I gave them a sheet to fill in that said I see, I smell, etc. Like John Dewey, I

believe it is great to integrate all subject areas.

I am personally inspired to learn through observation, as I can’t wait to see if

middle Mike became a chrysalis, and then see them all emerge as new creatures. I have

noticed a new excited attitude in the air, as my students can’t wait to look in the

sanctuary as well. They love learning when it is real and they experience it with their

senses..

In conclusion, I know they got the big lesson or big picture. They feel an

emotional attachment and appreciation for another living creature as

a result of this lesson. I feel very proud to say this, because I do believe what our text

says, “meaningful learning for most students occurs when scientific knowledge is

integrated into the student’s personal experience” (Buxton, C. & Provenzo, E., 2007).









References

Buxton, C.A. & Provenzo, E. F. Jr . (2007) Teaching Science in Elementary & Middle School: A Cognitive and Cultural Approach. Thousand Oaks CA: Sage
Publications.