This year in my classroom, the theme is “Think like a scientist.” I want every one of my students—whether they’re studying Earth Science, Life Science, or Physical Science—to step into class each day ready to explore the world through the lens of a scientist.
When students think like scientists, they don’t just memorize facts. Instead, they practice important science skills such as:
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Observing carefully what’s happening around them
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Hypothesizing about what might be true or what could happen
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Evaluating data and evidence before forming conclusions
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Inferring meaning from patterns and results
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Investigating through experiments and research
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Classifying information and organizing what they discover
Hands-on lab activities are a huge part of this process. By experimenting, testing ideas, and sometimes even failing and trying again, students experience science the way real scientists do—through curiosity, persistence, and discovery.
To set the tone, I’ve prepared our classroom and hallway space to welcome my 6th–8th grade scientists. Bright visuals, thought-provoking quotes, and science-themed displays remind students daily of our shared goal: to think like scientists in everything we do.
This year, my students won’t just learn science—they’ll practice being scientists. I’m excited to watch their curiosity grow and their scientific thinking skills strengthen!
(Photos below show our classroom and hallway displays, ready for a new year of exploration!)
{Click to view below}
Elements of a Successful Student 2024
Think Like A Scientist, y'all!
