Faculty Publications & Research
Title
Pennies and Eggs: Initiation Into Inquiry Learning for Pre-Service Elementary Education Teachers
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2008
Keywords
Science Writing Heuristic, scientific inquiry, elementary education, discovery learning, flotation methods, student engagement
Disciplines
Chemistry
Abstract
Two labs incorporating the Science Writing Heuristic are described that introduce scientific inquiry in a course for preservice students majoring in elementary education. One lab adapts a previously described discovery learning opportunity involving the change in composition and mass of pennies in 1982. The other involves the use of flotation methods to separate hard-boiled and uncooked eggs based on density. Evidence for student engagement with the method is presented, along with analysis of persistent problems with the concept of density revealed by students’ writing about their understandings.
Recommended Citation
Wink, D. J., & Choe, J. H. (2008). Pennies and eggs: Initiation into inquiry learning for pre-service elementary education teachers. Journal of Chemical Education, 85, 396-398. http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/ed085p396
