STEM Learning with Young Children

Inquiry Teaching with Ramps and Pathways

Betty Zan author Lawrence Escalada author Rosemary Geiken author Melissa Sander author Jill Uhlenberg author Beth Dykstra Van Meeteren author Sonia Yoshizawa author Shelly L Counsell author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Teachers' College Press

Published:28th Dec '15

Should be back in stock very soon

STEM Learning with Young Children cover

This teacher’s guide provides the background information, STEM concepts, and strategies needed to successfully implement an early STEM curriculum (Ramps and Pathways) with young children, ages 3–8. R&P actively engages young children in designing and building ramp structures using wooden cove molding, releasing marbles on the structures, and observing what happens. Children use logical-mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills as they explore science concepts related to motion, force, and energy. This guide helps teachers to:

  • Structure and organize an engaging STEM learning environment.
  • Understand and promote logical-mathematical and scientific thinking during investigations.
  • Promote social settings that enhance communication, cooperation, and collaboration.
  • Make the necessary accommodations and modifications for diverse learners.
  • Integrate STEM concepts and skills with other content areas.
  • Align teaching and learning with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards (CCSS).
  • Assess STEM learning using formative and summative assessments.
  • Establish adult learning communities to support ongoing professional development.
  • Help children develop habits and behaviors that contribute to positive attitudes toward STEM.

This one-of-a-kind resource uses a newly created Inquiry Teaching Model (ITM) as the conceptual framework and devotes specific attention to the importance of an inclusive and social, STEM learning environment in which children are free to collaborate, take risks, and investigate within the context of exploratory and constructive play.

"The authors summarize the importance of STEM-based education, provide a practical approach, and place it in the context of classrooms from the preschool to second-grade level. Early childhood educators who are interested in moving away from a siloed approach to teaching content, looking to integrate across content areas, and making STEM education an important part of their classrooms should read this book. Using R&P could be an excellent entry point or foundation for educators seeking to better integrate content and infuse STEM learning into their classrooms."

—Teachers College Record

ISBN: 9780807757499

Dimensions: 229mm x 156mm x 11mm

Weight: 306g

216 pages