b.
Managing Learning in the Classroom
An
activity like this does not require a lot of IT capability, and
the combination of co-operation to crack the problem combined
with competition to grow the biggest flower generates good pace
and enthusiasm. Emphasise that scientists always work systematically
to make sure they get the best results in the shortest time.
There
are a number of other minor issues, which you need to consider
to ensure that pupils gain the best from this activity.
-
They shouldn't spend too much time on one factor.
- Warn
them that the plant will not grow at all if they have far too
much or far too little of some ingredients.
- As
the model is quite sensitive, particularly for Ingredient A,
pupils may need a hint in order to avoid frustration. Suggest
that the scientists usually try about 5ml of each ingredient
to start with.
-
Monitor each pair's progress carefully, and intervene with the
whole class to discuss working systematically if many pairs
are organising their investigation poorly.
- Some
may think they are stuck when they have filled up the table
- ask them whether they need to keep all the old ones, and suggest
they replace some early attempts with better ones.
- There
will also be many pupils whose thinking about number is limited
to whole numbers. They will need prompting, or even demonstration,
to help them extend their strategy to decimal values.
Questions
for Consideration
- What
other issues do you think might arise?
- How
might you prevent/overcome any difficulties?
 c.
Helping Learners Develop their own IT Capabilities
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