Web Tool for Exploring the Predictive Power of Scientific Models
The Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) has created an online version of its popular activity “Determining and Measuring Earth’s Layered Interior” to challenge students to use evidence in the form of earthquake data to understand the Earth’s interior layers.
The activities in this free web-based tool emphasize the use of models and the importance of using empirical evidence to make discoveries in Earth Science. When using the tool, students act as scientists as they discover and analyze real-world data. This exploration encourages independent thinking, data analysis, and engineering and design thinking, as it builds an understanding of this dynamic planet and its internal engine.
Using the tool, students answer interactive questions such as How do the Earth’s systems interact? and Why do scientists use models? The tool offers detailed instructions, embedded instructional videos, and a downloadable certificate on completion.
Each month we publish blogs and newsletters full of digital learning, funding, professional growth, social media, and STEM resources. Below are items from our blogs and newsletters that educators turned to the most in May.
Argonne National Laboratory is expanding its digital presence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education with two channels aimed specifically at students and teachers: STEAMville and a new education-focused Instagram account.
Developed by researchers at TERC and Tuft University’s Center for Engineering Education and Outreach (CEEO), the Designing Biomimetic Robots curriculum challenges middle school students to learn about biomimicry by interweaving engineering, biology, robotics, and computer programming concepts through a series of engaging and practical tasks.