Art in Science Through Sci-A-Grams
Components of the Next Generation Science (NGS) Standards include developing and using models and communicating information. This article details how to help improve students' abilities to u... See More
Components of the Next Generation Science (NGS) Standards include developing and using models and communicating information. This article details how to help improve students' abilities to use models through a form of visual literacy. Students who are able to accurately draw or make scientific diagrams will be more apt to show their thinking through these forms of visual literacy. The article provides a strategy to help all students increase their confidence in drawing by the explicit teaching of how to create science diagrams or sci-a–grams. Students learn how to draw cats, thermometers, vases, and frogs using stick figures and basic shapes before they progress to detailed frogs and technically accurate diagrams. A rubric for assessing students’ sci-a-grams is included. As a result of this technique for teaching students how to use graphics to communicate scientific concepts, students are better able to convey their ideas, and teachers are provided with another means to check for student understanding of important science concepts.
Drawing: As Easy and 1, 2, 3
This article explains a fabulous way to build student confidence in creating scientific drawings. As someone who is “artistically impaired,” I found the article extremely enlightening. The p... See More
This article explains a fabulous way to build student confidence in creating scientific drawings. As someone who is “artistically impaired,” I found the article extremely enlightening. The practical tips for drawing, labeling, and coloring are useful for science students---and nature journalists---at any level. Constructing drawings will no doubt be a critical skill when addressing the engineering components of the NGSS. You’ll find this article invaluable at developing student confidence---and yours---when it comes to illustrating designs.