80 "Still In The Middle, But Moving Closer": An Interview With Middle School Teacher Mercedes G.

Teaching Science In 3D

The 2020-2021 academic year hasn’t been easy, but for some teachers, it hasn’t been without success either. Meet Mercedes.

“I think I’m still in the middle, but I’m moving closer… it is that spectrum.” [2:50]

Mercedes began exploring how to use three-dimensional teaching in her middle school science classroom just a few years ago, and in this podcast episode, she shares both her successes and where she’s still learning and growing. This candid conversation is both a celebration of what is possible and a reflection on where there’s still space to improve (because we ALL have space to improve). Mercedes’ natural inclination toward engagement, discussion, and empowering student ownership has given her a jumpstart in implementing three-dimensional, student-owned science, but her reflective nature is truly what is making her the amazing teacher she is — it’s allowed her to identify her “next steps” to take her teaching - and her students’ learning - even further.

This episode is sure to spark that reflection in your own teaching - your planning, in how you craft your activities and respond to student questions, and even in more subtle areas like assumptions about student abilities and performance. You’ll also walk away with a few phenomena ideas for science topics like weather and climate, some strategies for encouraging student reflection about participation and talk, and a simple introduction to “flipping” your science lessons for greater exploration.
Click here for the full episode recap.
Additional Resources

• Connect With Mercedes G. >> Instagram
• Using Student Questions to Build Storylines - Podcast Episode 17
• 67 [TT] Who Is Doing The Talking?
• 59 Creating A Culture Of Engagement And Connection: Interview With Middle School Teacher Debbie J.
• iExploreScience Be Curious Cohorts Wait List

Let's Connect

• Teaching Science in 3D on Instagram & Facebook

You're invited to check out Bring Wonder Back, an on-demand video series designed to help you take your first steps to transforming your students into scientists with 3D teaching practices — what the NGSS is all about! Access this video series at iexplorescience.com/wonder and get ready to bring wonder, engagement, and a love for learning back to your science class.

Are you looking for a quick, easy and FREE way to improve your lessons? Download Erin's 3D Lesson Planner. Then, all you have to do is write down what you are already doing in class. Then, she will send you instructions for EASY next steps. Click here to grab this FREE download.

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Connect With Erin Sadler & Nicole VanTassel
Instagram: @SadlerScience // @iExploreScience
Website: Sadler Science // iExploreScience

Chapters

1. 80 "Still In The Middle, But Moving Closer": An Interview With Middle School Teacher Mercedes G. (00:00:00)

2. [Ad] Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach (00:20:50)

3. (Cont.) 80 "Still In The Middle, But Moving Closer": An Interview With Middle School Teacher Mercedes G. (00:21:30)