Approximate Time Needed:
Possibly 10-15 minutes of classtime, mostly homework
Lesson Summary:
Students will independently research a science-oriented career to
supplement their classroom knowledge and present the results to the class.
Lesson Objective:
Students will gain an awareness of: the "real world" connection to the
academic lessons of the classroom; the freedom to explore careers in
science that match their personal interests and abilities without
necessarily interfering with classtime; and the valuable experience teaching
their classmates what they have learned.
Materials and Resources :
- ECOS Career Search or Career Directory
- ECOS Career List
Helpful Hints:
The assignment may be given as a rotating assignment for the class in
order to build an understanding of the multitude of science careers or as
an incentive to students if extra credit is offered.
Activities:
- Provide students with a list of possible careers in the particular
field of science the class is studying (e.g. Biology, Chemistry,
Physics, Geology, Oceanography, Nutrition, Health, etc.). The list is
intended to serve as springboard, not the absolute list
for the students to use. The point is to have the students explore. Use
the ECOS Career List as an
aid.
- Assign one student to research and present a science-related
career to the class each week. Students can access the data on the
Career Search or Career Directory.
- The scope of the research can be adapted to the time available,
needs of the course, and the ability level of the class. Basic
information such as education requirements, career characteristics and
responsibilities, career outlook, and salary information may be
appropriate.
- The presentations can vary with the desires of the teacher
and students. A poster, flyer, or other visual medium is strongly
recommended to create an attractive reminder of the connection between
the classroom and the possibilities for the future. An accompanying oral
presentation would be helpful in developing public speaking skills and a
thorough knowledge of the information.
Evaluation:
The presentation or a combination of the
presentation and the notes from the research.
OR
Students write a one-page written synopsis of the research. The
synopsis could be posted with the visual component of the assignment
after being graded.
Possible Adaptations:
The lesson is extremely flexible and may be adapted in a number of ways
to suit the teacher's needs. The teacher may pre-select the careers
desired for the class or give students the freedom to select their own
careers.
Invite a community representative to the class to speak about their
science-related career.