Best 7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

by Katrina | Sep 20, 2024 | Blogging, Lesson Ideas, Science

Best 7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

I always felt like such a bad teacher when I would pull out the textbook or more boring worksheets for my class to complete.

So… I designed, trialled, re-designed, trialled, and re-designed my own 7th grade scientific method worksheets until I had some that I was both proud to hand out and that my students actually enjoyed completing!

In this blog post, you will be introduced a range of engaging 7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities to help students learn and consolidate understanding of the scientific method.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

Why teach the scientific method in 7th grade?

So, why do we teach the scientific method to seventh graders? Well, let’s break it down. Picture yourself back in seventh grade – awkward, curious, and trying to make sense of the world. That’s where the scientific method swoops in like a superhero to save the day!

First off, the scientific method isn’t just some boring formula scientists use; it’s a mindset, a way of thinking. It’s about asking questions, making observations, and testing ideas to find answers. And trust me, in the chaos of adolescence, having a structured approach to figuring things out is like having a secret weapon.

Seventh grade is this magical time when kids start to really question things. Like, why is the sky blue? How do plants grow? Why do cats always land on their feet? Teaching the scientific method at this age gives them the tools to investigate these mysteries on their own. It’s empowering, you know?

Plus, let’s not forget about critical thinking. In today’s world, where information comes at us faster than ever, being able to sift through the noise and separate fact from fiction is crucial. The scientific method teaches kids to be skeptical, to ask for evidence, and to draw their own conclusions based on data – skills that’ll serve them well for life, not just in science class.

And let’s not overlook the hands-on aspect. Seventh graders are all about getting their hands dirty (literally sometimes), so why not let them dive into experiments and see science in action? Whether it’s mixing chemicals in a lab or planting seeds in the garden, the scientific method makes learning tangible and, dare I say, fun.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

What needs to be taught for the scientific method in 7th grade?

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

In seventh grade, introducing the scientific method involves focusing on its core components in a way that’s engaging and accessible to students. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects that should be taught:

1. Observation: Teach students how to keenly observe the world around them. Encourage them to use their senses to gather information and notice patterns or anomalies. Simple exercises like observing the behavior of animals or changes in weather can kickstart their observation skills.

2. Questioning: Foster a culture of curiosity by encouraging students to ask questions about what they observe. Teach them how to formulate clear and testable questions that can be investigated scientifically. For instance, why does a candle flame flicker? How does the amount of sunlight affect plant growth?

3. Hypothesis: Help students understand the concept of a hypothesis – a tentative explanation or prediction based on observations and prior knowledge. Show them how to make educated guesses about the outcomes of their investigations. Encourage them to use “if…then” statements to articulate their hypotheses.

4. Experimentation: Introduce the idea of designing experiments to test hypotheses. Teach students how to identify variables (independent, dependent, and controlled), how to include a control group, and how to set up fair tests to collect data. Hands-on activities and simple experiments can bring this aspect to life, allowing students to see the scientific method in action.

5. Data Collection and Data Analysis: Guide students in collecting data using appropriate tools and methods. Teach them how to record their observations systematically and accurately. In particular, it is important that students know how to graph results in an appropriate style of graph for the data collected. Show them how to organize data in tables or charts and analyze patterns to draw conclusions.

6. Conclusion: Emphasize the importance of drawing conclusions based on evidence gathered during experimentation. Encourage students to reflect on their findings and assess whether they support or refute their hypotheses. Teach them to communicate their conclusions clearly and objectively.

7. Iteration: Highlight that science is an ongoing process of inquiry and discovery. Teach students that it’s okay if their hypotheses are not supported by initial experiments – that’s how science works! Encourage them to revise their hypotheses and design new experiments to further investigate their questions.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

Check out these awesome 7th grade scientific method worksheets that incorporate fun scenarios, colorful clipart and challenging activities to keep students engaged.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

7th grade scientific method worksheets

1. Scientific method booklet (teacher & student) – This is a great way to structure your lessons and work your way through the scientific method.

2. Scientific variables worksheet (dragon themed) – students often have trouble identifying the different types of variables. This is a fun way for students to practice this skill.

3. Scientific variables worksheet (valentine’s day themed) – this worksheet has 10 fun valentines day scenarios for students to identify the dependent, independent and controlled variables.

4. Scientific variables worksheet (halloween themed) – practice identifying variables with these spooky scenarios!

5. Scientific method color by number – this is an easy activity to print and give your students for review or to have as an early finisher activity.

6. Scientific method crossword – this is another easy activity to print and give your students for review or to have as an early finisher activity.

7. FREE scientific method posters – Free printable posters to put up around your room!

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

7th grade scientific method activities

8. Scientific method escape room – review key terms and skills for the scientific method with an escape room!

9. Scientific method 2-player racing game – get your students’ competitive nature going with this two player racing game!

10. Lab safety escape room – a key component of the scientific method, and being able to carry out their own experiments, is that they can work in the lab safely. Make it fun with this escape room!

11. Graphing skills escape room – review key skills for graphing in science with an escape room!

12. Following instructions rainbow lab – this is a great way to introduce the scientific method and the importance of following instructions and measuring accurately.

13.Scientific Method Bundle –grab a heap of the scientific method resources with a huge discount in this bundle!

Note: the above resources are suitable for 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

Conclusion

Knowledge of the scientific method is crucial for students to be able to conduct their own scientific investigations in order to answer a scientific question.

These 7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities are a far stretch from the normal, boring classroom resources.

Using these types of activities also play a part in helping students develop understanding of the real world applications of the scientific method.

7th grade scientific method worksheets and activities

Note: Always consult your school’s specific safety guidelines and policies, and seek guidance from experienced colleagues or administrators when in doubt about safety protocols.

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10 FREE Digital Resources for Middle School Science

by Katrina | Sep 6, 2024 | Blogging, Science

10 FREE Digital Resources for Middle School Science

In today’s digital age, the integration of technology in education has become necessary. In this blog post, I’ve curated a list of 10 FREE digital resources for middle school science that have scientifically accurate information, amazing visual representation of difficult concepts, and an interactive nature.

Spring break guide for teachers

Digital resources for middle school science

1. PhET Interactive Simulations

PhET Interactive Simulations provides a vast collection of free, research-based interactive math and science simulations. Covering topics from physics to biology, these simulations allow students to explore and experiment with various scientific phenomena in a virtual environment.

2. Google Earth for Education

Google Earth for Education takes geography to a whole new level by providing a platform for virtual exploration of the world. Science teachers can use this tool to create custom tours, explore ecosystems, and even examine geological features from satellite imagery.

3. Biodigital Human

The Biodigital Human platform is a 3D interactive visualization tool that allows students to explore the human body in detail. This resource is invaluable for teaching anatomy, physiology, and health-related topics.

digital resources for middle school science

4. National Geographic Education

National Geographic Education offers a wealth of resources for science educators, including lesson plans, maps, videos, and interactive features. It’s an excellent source for incorporating real-world examples and exploration into your lessons.

5. NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System

NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System is a powerful visualization tool that allows users to explore the cosmos in real-time. Teachers can use this resource to take their students on virtual tours of the solar system and beyond.

6. Edpuzzle

Edpuzzle is an innovative platform that allows teachers to turn any video into an interactive lesson. You can add questions, quizzes, and comments to videos, ensuring that students are actively engaged with the content.

7. Quizlet

Quizlet is a versatile learning platform that offers tools for creating flashcards, quizzes, and interactive games. Science teachers can use Quizlet to reinforce vocabulary, concepts, and processes in an engaging and effective manner.

digital resources for middle school science

8. Virtual science teachers

Virtual science teachers provides a whole range of free simulations and lessons suitable for middle school science.

9. The Royal Society

The Royal Society has a selection of online science games aimed at middle school science. These add some variety and fun into science lessons while still engaging students in the content.

10. Wolfram

Wolfram has a range of free virtual labs for high school physics, chemistry and biology.

You may also like my blog post on 15 free virtual dissection labs.

digital resources for middle school science

Conclusion

Incorporating these digital resources for middle school science can breathe new life into your lessons and provide students with dynamic, interactive learning experiences.

digital resources for middle school science

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10 tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

by Katrina | Aug 19, 2024 | Blogging, Teacher Tips & Hacks

10 tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

With the rapid growth of online content sees the rise of ai-generated content and artificial intelligence, it is important to be able to detect ai written content in student submission of work. The use of chatgpt in middle and high school settings has grown astronomically, making it harder for teachers to determine student understanding and whether they have used an ai writing tool.

In this blog post we will introduce 10 tools teachers can use to check for chat gpt and ai use in student work.

What is an AI detector?

An AI detector is a tool or system designed to identify whether a piece of content—such as text, images, audio, or video—was generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence. These detectors employ various techniques to analyze and recognize patterns or anomalies indicative of AI-generated content.

Using an AI detector can help teachers determine the authenticity of a student submission to mitigate issues such as plagiarism.

How do AI detectors work?

AI-generated content often has distinct patterns or inconsistencies that can be detected using statistical methods and machine learning. AI detectors use advanced algorithms to pick up these inconsistencies by monitoring unusual patterns in the creation or distribution of content.

Things to consider when using an ai text detector:

1. False positives: Ensuring accurate results in detection is challenging, with the risk of incorrectly identifying human-generated content as AI-generated and vice versa. Using an AI detector is not always a reliable way to check.

2. Evasion Tactics: As AI detection software improves, AI tools and AI technology also evolve to evade detection, leading to a continuous arms race. The ability for AI to produce human-like text is amazing, but obviously poses continual problems for educators trying to gauge the authenticity of student writing. In the near future it may become near impossible to detect.

The best ways to detect for AI-written content is by using an AI detector alongside knowing your students and their regular writing voice and sentence structure to determine whether it is the student’s own work.

How can teachers use an AI content detector:

Teachers can use AI detectors to ensure the integrity and originality of student work, particularly in academic settings where there is a growing concern about students using AI tools to generate essays, reports, and other assignments. They are also a great tool to use with your students to demonstrate and educate students on academic integrity and encourage the development of original content. While AI continues to pull information from many sources, the intellectual property is in an AI-written text is always questionable.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

10 AI detecting tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

The following are the best ai detection tools for educators:

Note: depending on the length of the text, most of these websites provide a Free AI detector for a certain word count.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

1. Turnitin – Well-known for plagiarism detection, Turnitin has integrated features to detect AI-generated content. This is commonly used in university to check academic papers, and also in high school settings.

Website: turnitin.com

2. Grammarly – Primarily a grammar checker, Grammarly also offers some AI detection capabilities in its premium versions.

Website: grammarly.com

3. Copyleaks – Provides AI content detection alongside traditional plagiarism detection.

Website: copyleaks.com

4. Unicheck – An academic integrity tool that includes AI text detection in its features.

Website: unicheck.com

5. GPTZero – Specifically designed as a reliable chatgpt detector tool to detect chatgpt-generated text by AI models like GPT-3.

Website: gptzero.me

6. Content at Scale AI Detector – A free tool for detecting AI-generated content.

Website: contentatscale.ai

7. Sapling.ai – Offers AI writing assistance and detection of AI-generated text as an ai plagiarism checker.

Website: sapling.ai

8. Originality.AI – A plagiarism and AI detection tool tailored for web publishers and academic institutions.

Website: originality.ai

9. Writer.com AI Content Detector – Helps identify AI-generated content in various types of text.

Website: writer.com

10. Crossplag – Another plagiarism detection tool that can check for chat gpt and AI content.

Website: crossplag.com

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai u

Conclusion

These tools vary in their features and capabilities, so it’s worth exploring a few to find the one that best meets your needs. If you have large projects or regular projects you need to check, it may be worth paying for a suitable subscription.

I hope these tools help for you to check for chat gpt and AI use in your classes.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

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AI in High School Science: Teaching Ethical Uses of Chat GPT

by Alyse Johnson-Chilla | Aug 12, 2024 | Blogging, Science

AI in High School Science: Teaching Ethical Uses of Chat GPT

Hi science educators! I am very excited to introduce you to this weapon science educator, Alyse from Keystone Science. She has written this amazing guest blog post on how to teach ethical uses of Chat GPT and AI in high school science. In this blog post she delves into how student learning can be impacted by the use if AI, ethical issues around the use of AI, and how these new technologies can be harnessed for their benefit with specific reference to science teaching.

Whether we like it or not, it is likely that AI will forever be entwined in the future of education so its important we learn how to work with it rather than against it.

So grab a coffee, sit back and relax while Alyse steps you through some important ideas and shares a full lesson plan for you!

AI in high school science

Disclaimer: This blog post, ‘AI in high school science‘, may contain affiliate links. Read full disclaimer here. activ

Why Teach AI in High Schools?

Future-Ready Skills: AI technology is becoming a crucial part of many fields, from healthcare to finance. Understanding AI can provide students with a competitive edge in their future careers.
Critical Thinking: Learning about AI encourages students to think critically about technology and its impacts on society.
Ethical Awareness: Introducing AI in the classroom allows for discussions on ethical considerations, including plagiarism and academic integrity.
Time Management & Study Skills: AI can assist students with managing their time, create study plans, and help them prioritize their responsibilities. Students can also use AI to help them review concepts by acting as a tutor.

AI in high school science

Resources for using AI in high school science

I am by no means the expert on AI and using it in the classroom but I’ve used the lesson in this post the past 2 years with my high school biology students. Students love it and constantly thank me for teaching them more about AI, how it works, and how they can use it.

MOST of my students say before my lesson on AI they had so much anxiety over using AI they just didn’t use it at all because they were terrified of “getting caught” or using it the wrong way. Knowledge is power and this tool is NOT going away.

As a teacher, you do not need to be an expert in anything (yes, even your subject matter) but the lesson outlined below will go much more smoothly if YOU have personally played around with Chat GPT and other AI tools; before doing this lesson it would be beneficial for you have a prompt that gives you bad information that you can show your students some of the silly mistakes AI can make (ask it to explain a human body system…it has given me answers that leave out an entire organ!). I refer to the resources below during the lesson and show the Plagiarism Spectrum from turnitin.com to my students.

Sal Khan’s (founder of Khan Academy) TED Talk on How AI Could Save (Not Destroy) Education. This is an incredible preview of the potential of AI for students and teachers; if you want to learn more about Conmigo from Khan Academy and the potential for AI in the classroom, check out Sal Khan’s brand new book: Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing) using my affiliate link.
The chatGPT for Teachers Facebook Group has almost 500k members and a ton of helpful posts and graphics. It’s also a good place to post what you need help with; there are so many knowledgeable people in this space!
TurnItIn Plagiarism Spectrum (original and 2.0) is just a good review for students of what plagiarism is and why academic integrity is important. Neither specifically includes using AI in the writing process but it’s a great discussion point to have with students; ask them where they think AI use falls on the spectrum.
TurnItIn’s Solving the AI Writing Puzzle interactive graphic is meant only for teachers and administrators and is an awesome tool for concerns you or administrators have with students using AI and how to guide students to use it ethically and still generate original thought.

Now, without further ado, below is my 45-minute lesson plan to introduce Chat GPT and AI to high school students in a science classroom. You can get your own editable copy of the Canva presentation here.

AI in high school science

AI in high school science lesson plans

Below is a full lesson plan you can use in secondary schools for high school and middle school students to teach them about AI and academic integrity by answering some important questions and helping students gain a better understanding of what AI is and helpful applications of ai.

Objective: Students will understand the basics of AI, specifically Chat GPT, learn about plagiarism and cheating in an academic setting, and ways they can ethically use AI to save time and assist them with their school work.

Materials:

Teacher computer with a projector or interactive whiteboard.
Small sticky notes (1.5 x 2 in) for bellringer, dry-erase markers, etc.
Two different colors of sticky notes (3 x 3 in) for the introduction activity
Print outs of scenarios in the presentation.
Individual whiteboards or scrap paper (one per group) for group activity.

Lesson Outline:

Set up (5 min or less)

Print out the scenarios on slides 12-15 (one per group)
Before students enter the room have three columns set up on the board: “Never heard of it”, “Have used it”, “Use it all the time”
“Bellringer” slide should be displayed as students enter the room.

Bellringer (as students enter the room)

Give each student a small sticky note as they enter the room OR have them write a ✅ on the board with a dry-erase marker.
Students will place their sticky note or write a ✅in the column that best applies to them and their knowledge of ChatGPT or other AI tools.

Pre-assessment/Activate Prior Knowledge (5-7 minutes)

Give each student a 3×3 sticky note and show the “Before We Begin” slide.
Give students a few minutes to write their thoughts and questions on their sticky notes.
NOTE: Consider doing this the day before the lesson so you know where your class is and what questions they have. Each class may be different and you can adjust the lesson to fit each class’s needs!

What is Chat GPT? (10 minutes)

Move through slides 4-9 of the presentation explaining the basics of Chat GPT.
Pause at slide 9 to answer any questions students may have. This is also a great spot to address some questions from the sticky notes if students don’t have questions.

Responsible Use & Critical Analysis Group Activity (15-17 minutes)

Distribute the scenarios on slides 12-15, one per group.
Give students 5-7 minutes to read the scenario and answer the questions on slide 11. Groups may write their answers on a whiteboard or scrap piece of paper.
Show the scenario slides and have the assigned group explain their answers to each scenario (~2 minutes per group).

Academic Integrity Class Discussion (7 minutes)

Discuss academic integrity as it relates to Chat GPT and AI (slide 16)
- Optional: Give students the TurnItIn Plagiarism Spectrum to refer to as they analyze the three scenarios.
Go through each of the scenarios on slides 17-19. For each scenario ask the class how the student is utilizing the technology and where their use falls on the academic integrity spectrum.

Think, Pair, Share (4 minutes)

Give students one minute to jot down some ideas to use Chat GPT when working on projects or studying for quizzes/tests.
Give students one minute to discuss their ideas with a partner and identify at least one to share with the class.
Take 2 minutes to whip around the room to share ideas. As students share, jot ideas on slide 21 or the board.
- Optional: Take a picture of the board or screenshot the slide and post it on your LMS or class site for students to refer to throughout the school year.

Class Discussion & Ticket Out the Door (4-10 minutes)

Open the floor for any questions or discussions students want to have about the technology.
If time is left in the period, consider showing students how Chat GPT works by pulling it up on the board and typing in some prompts.
- Disclosure: Many AI tools have an age requirement or parental permission requirement. I do not allow students to personally use the tool in class unless they have parent permission.

AI in high school science

Intro to Chat GPT in Science Classroom by Alyse Johnson-Chilla

Now that your students have a better understanding of the ethical uses of AI in high school science to enhance their learning, what about you?! Teachers are BUSY and most struggle to get everything done. I’ve got another blog post you should check out: how to differentiate using AI. The post gives you practical steps and advice on using Diffit and Eduaide (artificial intelligence tools) in your classroom with some freebies (of course!).

AI in high school science

Conclusion

Teaching the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in high school science is not only about preparing students for future careers but also about fostering critical thinking and ethical awareness. By introducing AI in high school science through hands-on activities and discussions on plagiarism and academic integrity, we can help students navigate the complexities of these technologies responsibly.

If you’re looking for more resources or ideas on using AI in the classroom, be sure to check out my blog and follow me on Instagram (@keystonesciencepa), where you’ll find practical tips and levity from a secondary science teacher who is on this adventure with you. AI in high school scienceAI in high school science

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Lab Safety 101: for Middle and High School Science Teachers

by Katrina | Aug 1, 2024 | Blogging, Science

Lab Safety 101: for Middle and High School Science Teachers

As a new science teacher, one of the most daunting aspects was trying to get my head around lab safety. There were so many rules and procedures, not just for me but also my students and it was very overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through essential safety protocols, tips for setting up a safe laboratory environment, and provide resources for teaching lab safety effectively in a middle or high school environment.

lab safety 101 for science teachers a tray of gloves and safety glasses

Disclaimer: This blog post, ‘Lab Safety 101: A Comprehensive Guide for Middle and High School Science Teachers’, may contain links to resources that I have created for classroom use. Read full disclaimer here. activ

Understanding the Importance of Lab Safety

Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to recognize the significance of lab safety. The laboratory is a space where students engage in hands-on learning, often with potentially hazardous materials and equipment.

By establishing a culture of safety, you not only protect your students but also foster an environment that encourages curiosity, exploration, and a lifelong love of science.

Essential Lab Safety Protocols

1. Safety Briefings and Demonstrations

Begin every lab session with a safety briefing. Emphasize key safety rules, potential hazards, and the proper use of equipment. Consider demonstrating techniques and procedures to ensure students have a clear understanding.

2. Safety Equipment and Emergency Procedures

Familiarize students with the location and proper use of safety equipment, including eyewashes, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exits. Conduct regular drills so that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Require students to wear appropriate PPE, including lab coats or aprons, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes. Stress the importance of wearing these items at all times while in the lab.

4. Handling Chemicals

Store chemicals properly, following manufacturer guidelines.
Label all containers clearly, including any secondary containers.
Never mix chemicals unless directed to do so by the experiment instructions.
Provide proper ventilation when working with volatile substances.

5. Handling Glassware and Equipment

Inspect glassware for cracks or defects before use.
Instruct students on proper techniques for handling, cleaning, and storing glassware and equipment.

6. Waste Disposal

Clearly designate and label waste disposal containers for different types of waste (e.g., chemicals, broken glass). Teach students how to dispose of materials safely and in compliance with local regulations.

Setting Up a Safe Laboratory Environment

1. Lab Layout and Organization

Arrange workstations to allow for easy movement and supervision.
Keep aisles and exits clear of obstructions.
Provide clear signage indicating safety equipment and emergency exits.

2. Storage and Labeling

Store chemicals, glassware, and equipment in designated areas.
Clearly label shelves and containers to indicate contents and hazards.

3. Ventilation and Fume Hoods

Ensure adequate ventilation in the lab to prevent the buildup of fumes or gases. If available, instruct students on the proper use of fume hoods.

4. Safety Inspections and Maintenance

Regularly inspect equipment, safety devices, and emergency systems. Address any issues promptly and keep a record of maintenance activities.

5. Safety Documentation

Maintain up-to-date records of safety protocols, emergency procedures, and any incidents or accidents that occur in the lab.

Classroom resources for teaching lab safety

1. Lab safety contract – this was actually a game changer for me in my middle school classroom. By having a lab safety contract that students signed, it gave students a sense of seriousness and ownership over the lab and their behaviour in it. It also gave me something to refer back to if I felt students weren’t behaving properly, and to remind them of the consequences of it (which they agreed to when they signed it!)

2. Lab safety posters – these are great to have as visual reminders of lab safety protocol, as well as being a part of your classroom decor!

3. Lab safety escape room – want a fun way to review lab safety rules and procedures? This escape room is a super fun way to have students engage in revising these – perfect for the start of the school year!

4. Bunsen burner licence – My middle school students LOVE getting their Bunsen burner licences. It makes them feel like they have accomplished something and the physical certificate is something they really value.

5. Rainbow Lab Following Instructions – this Rainbow lab is a great back to school activity as it impresses the importance of following instructions and taking precise measurements.

Resources for Teaching Lab Safety

1. American Chemical Society (ACS) Safety Guidelines

The ACS provides a wealth of resources, including safety guidelines, lesson plans, and videos to help teach lab safety effectively. ACS Safety Guidelines

2. Flinn Scientific Safety Resources

Flinn Scientific offers a range of safety resources, including safety data sheets, instructional videos, and safety posters. Flinn Safety Resources

3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Lab Safety

OSHA provides a comprehensive guide to lab safety, including regulations, training resources, and hazard communication guidelines. OSHA Lab Safety

4. National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Safety Resources

NSTA offers a variety of safety resources, including articles, lesson plans, and safety checklists for science teachers. NSTA Safety Resources

Conclusion

As a new science teacher, prioritizing lab safety lays the foundation for a successful and enriching learning experience. By instilling proper safety protocols, maintaining a safe laboratory environment, and utilizing resources for teaching lab safety, you create an environment where students can explore the wonders of science with confidence and curiosity.

Remember, safety is not just a rule, but a culture that fosters a lifelong appreciation for the scientific process and ensures the safety of all students and teachers.

Note: Always consult your school’s specific safety guidelines and policies, and seek guidance from experienced colleagues or administrators when in doubt about safety protocols.

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49 Best time management tips for teachers

by Katrina | Jul 27, 2024 | Blogging, Teacher Tips & Hacks

49 Best time management tips for teachers

What is the one thing teacher’s never have enough of? Time. Well also pay – but let’s not go there right now. The importance of time management is not to be underestimated or undervalued as a teacher. Managing your time as a teacher is an essential skill to ensure the longevity of your career and the protection of your mental and physical health. If you have the right time management tips for teachers, then you can ensure your own well-being is not sacrificed by your job.

Teaching is a demanding profession that requires educators to wear many hats. From lesson planning and grading to engaging with students and collaborating with colleagues, managing time effectively is crucial for success in the classroom. There is never enough time, and often it is hard to determine what the best use of time is at any given moment. Good time management is essential for teachers to be able to cope with the demands of the job and find a work-life balance that suits each individual.

The beginning of the school year is a great time to reflect on your processes and determine how you might be able to set clear goals in terms of time management so that your school day doesn’t bleed into your personal life.

So grab a coffee and sit back and relax while we explore 49 time management tips for teachers.

Time management tips for teachers

Effective time management tips for teachers

As school teachers, we know the work day doesn’t have enough hours in it to get everything done. So it is even more important that you build your practical time management skills to ensure the effective use of your time. Here are 49 time management tips for teachers:

Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important tasks and prioritize them. Focus on essential tasks first to ensure essential responsibilities are met.
Create a To-Do List: Develop a daily or weekly to-do list to keep track of tasks and stay organized. Check off items as you complete them.
Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable goals for each day, week, and month. Realistic goals prevent overwhelm and boost productivity.
Time Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time to different tasks. This helps create a structured routine and prevents multitasking.
Limit Multitasking: Multitasking can decrease overall efficiency. Concentrate on one task at a time to improve focus and quality of work. There is a lot of time lost in the process of task switching constantly and the mental load is also greater than just focusing on one task at a time.
Use Technology Wisely: Leverage technology tools for lesson planning, grading, and communication. Platforms like Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams can streamline tasks. Utilize it to schedule out emails and class tasks so you can do them when suits you without disrupting others at an inconvenient time.
Automate Repetitive Tasks: Identify tasks that can be automated, such as sending regular updates or setting recurring reminders.
Utilize Planning Periods: Maximize planning periods for lesson preparation and grading. Use this time efficiently to reduce workload after school hours.
Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar or specific tasks together to streamline efficiency. For instance, grade papers in one sitting or plan lessons for the week in a single session. This limits the amount of time wasted by switching between tasks and helps you get things done in less time. Time management tips for teachers
Learn to Say No: Recognize your limits and politely decline additional responsibilities when necessary. Prioritize your well-being. Yes of course you need to meet your contractual obligations, but if you are asked to go above and beyond that – it is ok to say no or ‘not at this time’.
Delegate When Possible: If you have support staff or can collaborate with colleagues, delegate tasks to share the workload. This could even include students if it includes keeping your classroom organised etc.
Effective Communication: Clearly communicate expectations and deadlines to students and colleagues. This helps everyone stay on the same page.
Take your Breaks: Use your breaks to actually have a break. It is important that you eat through the day and have some time to recharge.
Reflect and Evaluate: Regularly assess your time management strategies. Identify what works well and make adjustments as needed.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid taking work home at the end of the day whenever possible.
Use Templates: Develop templates for lesson plans, assessments, report writing, and other documents to save time on repetitive tasks. Even email responses to parents you can simplify by having some templates available. You may also like this blog post ‘11 FREE editable templates for teachers‘.
Limit Email Time: Allocate specific time slots for checking and responding to emails. Avoid constant interruptions throughout the day by turning off your email notifications.
Invest in Professional Development: Stay updated on the latest teaching methods and tools. Continuous learning can enhance your efficiency in the long run and keep you motivated in the profession.
Collaborate with Colleagues: Share resources and collaborate with fellow teachers. Working together can save time and improve the quality of teaching and share resources so you aren’t all wasting time creating the same thing.
Embrace Technology-Free Zones: Designate specific times or areas where technology is not allowed to encourage focused work or relaxation. This could be done during class time or your own personal time. Time management tips for teachers

Time management tips for teachers continued…

21. Use Reminders: Set reminders for important deadlines and tasks. This can help prevent last-minute rushes.

22. Encourage Student Independence: Foster a sense of responsibility in students, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning, which can reduce your workload.

23. Don’t set homework: It is not always necessary and setting homework assignments only adds to your workload. Don’t set it to save you time by not needing to check or mark it.

24. Stay Healthy: Prioritize self-care, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. A healthy teacher is a more effective teacher.

25. Mindfulness and Meditation:Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine to reduce stress and improve focus.

26. Use Visual Aids: Visual tools like calendars, charts, sticky note, and planners can enhance organization and time management.

27. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost motivation.

28. Utilize a Centralized Calendar: Maintain a single calendar for all your appointments, deadlines, and events. This prevents scheduling conflicts and helps you stay organized.

29. Use color-coding: In calendars and to-do lists it can be very helpful to have a color coding system to help you prioritise and organise your events and tasks.

30. Create a Grading System: Develop a consistent and efficient grading system. This could include using rubrics or providing feedback during specific time slots.

31. Use Checklists for Routine Tasks: For routine tasks like setting up the classroom or collecting homework, create checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked.

32. Implement a two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up.

33. Establish a Morning Routine: Develop a consistent morning routine to set a positive tone for the day. This could include reviewing the day’s schedule, checking emails and setting priorities.

34. Schedule Buffer Time: Allow for buffer time between tasks to account for unexpected interruptions or delays.

35. Use headphones: Block out interruption in the staff room by using noise cancelling headphones.

36. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. A positive mindset can contribute to better time management.

37. Explore Time-Tracking Apps: Use time-tracking apps to monitor how you spend your time. This awareness can lead to more informed adjustments in your schedule.

38. Set Personal Deadlines: Establish personal deadlines ahead of official ones. This creates a buffer for unforeseen circumstances.

39. Create a Resource Library: Develop a digital or physical resource library with materials and lesson plans that can be reused or adapted in the future.

40. Engage in Physical Activity: Incorporate short bursts of physical activity into your day to boost energy levels and focus. Time management tips for teachers

Time management tips for teachers

More time management tips for teachers…

41. Limit Social Media Use: Set specific times for checking social media to prevent it from becoming a constant distraction.

42. Establish a Homework Collection System: Streamline the process of collecting and returning homework to save time and maintain organization.

43. Use Mind Mapping for Planning: Visualize your lesson plans and ideas using mind maps. This can enhance creativity and clarity in your teaching approach.

44. Set Clear Learning Objectives: Clearly define learning objectives for each lesson to stay focused on essential content and activities. This helps you decide quickly whether activities are going to be helpful in a lesson or just be busy work.

45. Rotate Classroom Responsibilities: Share classroom responsibilities with students to foster a sense of community and lighten your workload.

46. Designate a Clean-Up Routine: Allocate time at the end of each day for a quick clean-up of your workspace and classroom to start the next day with a fresh slate.

47. Develop a System for Paperwork: Establish a system for managing paperwork efficiently, such as color-coded folders or digital filing. If you prefer digital systems then look at using a note-taking app and organise your Google drive folders to streamline your online filing.

48. Collaborate on Lesson Planning: Collaborate with fellow teachers to share lesson planning responsibilities, allowing for diverse perspectives and shared workload.

49. Have a daily routine: know exactly what you are going to do and when you are going to do it. Are you going to check your emails first thing in the morning? Or after the day? When are you going to do photocopying? Having a set time for your daily habits is helpful so you don’t waste time figuring out what to do next – its already decided for you! This also helps remove some of the mental fatigue as it becomes repetitive practice you won’t need to think about it.

Time management tips for teachers

Conclusion

Working towards developing excellent time management skills as a teacher is a great way to back yourself. It will have long-term gains for you and ensure you are able to tackle the day to day without being in constant fight or flight mode.

Make sure you share these time management tips for teachers with your teaching bestie!

Time management tips for teachers

classroom management strategies for high school

Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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