Multimodal Science: Supporting Elementary Science Education through Graphic-Enhanced Communication

North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC

Investigators

Abstract

This is an exploratory project to enhance elementary students' engagement in and learning of science through visual communication skills using student-generated graphics in science notebooks. The products include two professional development modules for each grade level 2-5 that explicitly teach specific forms of graphical representation used in science, how these representations complement written and numeric information, and how teachers can promote the thoughtful reflection and discussion of these representations in small-group and whole-class settings. In addition, support materials are provided that guide teachers in effectively using student-produced graphic representations as a formative evaluative tool through embedded assessment. The modules are built upon exemplary inquiry-based classroom activities that are aligned with national standards and are appropriate for the targeted grades. They provide strategies for instruction and assessment, sample work by students, and video of model classroom practice. The project web site and NSF-supported national portals are the primary means for dissemination at this exploratory stage.