May 7, 2020
We are honored to name Abigail Paske, Science Specialist at Washington Elementary in Berkeley, as a 2020 Science Super Star!
Abby teaches around 270 students from grades 1 to 6.
Despite every grade level having different requirements and abilities, she maintains cohesive lessons that engage all types of learners from every classroom. She led some of her students to discover the different forms of energy, while younger students began to compare the differences between types of grass and plants. All students are encouraged to analyze data from their labs to create conclusions. This might be a more circular process for younger grades, but older students are encouraged to make PowerPoint presentations, or stop-motion animations of processes.
She wants other teachers to be prepared when trying to create new science lessons. Her favorite tip:
“Hands-on science is the best, but materials management can be tricky. Think about clean up, as well as passing out materials, as you plan”
As often as possible, she incorporates graphs into her lessons to build math development skills. She also may include “missing pieces” of data that can be predicted through a graph and checked experimentally.
Abby also strives to ensure a vibrant science community in her school beyond the classroom. She sends out weekly MEOWs (Mini Experiment of the Week) plans Science EXPOs. She also looks to collaborate with other organizations to create more science opportunities. Last year, she had Scientific Adventures for Girls come and help run a Saturday Science Festival.
She understands the importance of students meeting scientists who work in a variety of fields and come from diverse backgrounds. She planned a Snack with a Scientist day, where she invited scientists to the school for an opportunity to chat with students about who they are and what they do.
Along with the science she is teaching, Abby’s effect on her students is apparent. Many of her students are passionate about the science they do, and love to incorporate it into their lives outside of the classroom.
“One student was so excited about the fourth grade unit on electrical circuits, that she had a flashlight building birthday party. Another group of kids were so enthusiastic about magnets, that they planned a magnets and iron filings playdate.”