Volume 11 Science for
All
1. Working in a small group
discuss each of the following statements in terms of (a) What are the
values and assumptions implicitly in the statement? (b) What kinds of
power relations are at work here? and (c) What are the implications
for practice?
• It is absolutely natural for boys to behave in aggressive, 'macho' ways and for girls to be quiet and passive. Men and women are supposed to complement one another and we should not try to change that fact. It is all down to our genes!• If women teachers have trouble with discipline with boys that is their problem!
• Don't misunderstand me. I'm against sexism like the next person. But I think discussion about sexism in school takes time away from the really important thing---and that's getting kids through the course to take exams, isn't it?
2. Find out who the following scientists were, and what their contributions were to science. Design a science lesson using one, a few or all of these scientists.
Benjamin BannekerVilhelm Bjerknes
Elizabeth Blackwell
Sofie Brahe
Charles Richard Drew
Caroline Herschel
Charles Steinmetz
2. Write to several organizations serving disabled and exceptional students and report on their services and publications.
3. What actions would you take if a student was placed in your class was wheel-chair bound?
4. If you were a school board member what actions would recommend your school district take to ensure that all females, minorities, and disabled who attend your school district aspire to excellence in science, mathematics and engineering?