Looking for Feedback

One assignment I enjoyed was the Unit Plan Share Out using the Feedback Capture Grid (see below). According to the module, "this can be used either to give feedback on progress within the design team or to capture a user’s feedback about a prototype. You use the grid because it helps you be systematic about feedback and more intentional about capturing thoughts in the four different areas." I particularly thought this was a valuable tool to learn and am excited to use with my students. 

The unit I reviewed for the unit plan sharing assignment was for eighth grade science, specifically on energy. First of all, I thought it was a fantastic unit. I particularly liked the variety of assignments, especially the brochure and exit tickets. I like how the teacher has the students reading the passage on a Google Docs. This allows students to have it read to them.’ The teacher did a great job splitting groups based on readiness assessment. Furthermore, I think the students will love the melting challenge, as students tend to be competitive.

I did have some suggestions for change. For instance, in the ‘What is My Goal’ section I thought the teacher could move what she listed - ‘How conduction can be used’ under ‘Students should be able to’ to ‘Students should know’ section since it is more of a knowledge statement than action. Another suggestion I had was to perhaps include online articles (at appropriate level) on energy topics for further reading and/or information gathering. Lastly, I thought a screencast might be helpful in showing students how to complete the brochure and experiment.

I was surprised how interactive science lessons are now compared to when I had 8th grade science. In addition there is a great variety of ways to introduce the topic - vocab, experiments, videos, exit slips, etc. With all the interactive elements, differentiation, and use of technology, I believe students will enjoy the unit and perform well on the assessments.