Applying New Learning in the Classroom

Yesterday HTMS science teacher Rebecca Brown participated in science professional learning at HTHS with middle and high school colleagues.  She returned to the classroom today and tried out an activity that the teachers learned about yesterday, the hot seat activity. Mrs. Brown's students had read magazines about space exploration in preparation for researching the International Space Station. Mrs. Brown said she was a little nervous that her students would be would be shy and not ask questions and talk. She was WRONG! Before beginning their research, Mrs. Brown let six student in the circle ask questions (the 6 in the middle) they had about the International Space Station. The students asked questions and did a GREAT job discussing. The kids enjoyed being in the hot seat and sharing. According to Mrs. Brown, the hot seat is a very engaging, effective activity.

This activity supports the understanding of new content information, as well as ELA Speaking and Listening Standards that call for students to effectively engage in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher led) with diverse partners of Grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.