This project has changed much of our teaching across the curriculum. Here are some examples:
Middle School Science
During a presentation of the Genes and Mendel module (at Frank Ward Strong Middle School in Durham CT), after a brief warm-up activity, students took an interlude to review their previous applications of the Equivalents tool to the letters “D”, “N”, “A”, as well as “A”, “T”, “P”, representing ATP the universal energy molecule. They also reviewed “Bone Dances” they had created in a previous class to “embody” bones of the human skeleton. Embodied learning activities have been incorporated across their science curriculum.
Introductory College Biology
Each week, at the beginning of our problems session, we use a version of the Walk and Talk tool. Students move around the room (without music) and form pairs to discuss important concepts from that week’s lectures. After a few minutes, we hold a short discussion to share their ideas and comments.
Advanced College Biology
When we move from science-based content to thinking about relevant ethical or public policy issues, useful to get the students thinking independently using either Walk and Talk or Ask a Question.
At Any Level
Teaching a tedious pathway or list of definitions? Try using the Equivalents tool