Bulbs, Batteries and Wires

I thought the first lesson, done by Ms. Stone was more confusing although it was more teacher-centered.  I felt like the students were randomly thrown into an experiment without much preparation.  Just having terms on the board and then having students copy them down in their notebooks will not stick with the students and I do not think that was an effective way of catching students attention and getting them excited to start the experiment.  Ms. Travis' lesson was much more student-based however she still provided the students with certain materials that they would need to be successful and did not allow students to fully learn independently.

Start with asking students if they were to go to the supermarket and pick up a pack of electricity what they would buy.
 I would then provide students with a list of materials that students could possibly use to make a light bulb light up. Students will be directed to talk with their lab group and discuss what items they believe would be beneficial.
The list would include various objects such as wires, batteries, cotton ball, glass and more.  The students would need to get materials as well as provide an explanation for why they think it will create electricity.
After I would have students create a manual to create electricity and what not to to/use and WHY.  If I see students struggling during this experiment I will drop a hint to them so they do not form negative feelings with the experiment.
Then I would have students discuss with the class what worked and what didn't work.

Engage: Learner sharpens or clarifies question provided by teacher, materials or other source. Teacher directed- teacher purposes the question and students search to find answer or solution to the problem.

Evidence: Learner directed to collect certain data.  Student directed- student is given freedom to decide how to write down data and interpret it.

Explain: Learner formulates explanations from evidence. Student directed- student needs to tell what they did and WHY is worked or did not work.

Evaluate: Learner independently examines other resources and forms the links to explanations.  Student directed- students are asked to explain their reasoning.

Communicate: Learner communicates and justifies explanations. Student directed- the student needs to communicate through their manual and justify why it works.