There are many different topics to be covered under the “big idea” of light, so I chose to narrow it down to light and the electromagnetic spectrum. There are many websites out there, but the following sites proved the most beneficial:
This website is created and maintained by NASA. It contains numerous links to each part of the electromagnetic spectrum and does a terrific job explaining how they are all related. I especially like the fact that the site is student-friendly and offers an array of media presentations that accommodate all learning styles.
This website requires a subscription, but I feel like it is well worth the fee. These 4-6 minute videos are engaging yet informative and are an excellent way to introduce a topic.
This site allows students to manipulate the spectrum while showing the frequency of the wave, the energy, and facts about each type. There are also discussion questions at the end that can be used to prompt dialogue among the students.
I like this site due to the fact that it is extremely user-friendly. It is similar to the previous link but goes into more detail with more pictures and examples.
I believe that these sites can help develop my students into scientific literate citizens. Not only are they using technology to access these topics, but also communicating their findings to peers and adults. They will be exposed to charts and graphs which have to be correctly interpreted in order to engage in the discussion questions. Students will also have to be self-autonomous as they explore each site and come across new ideas or topics.
As an activity, I would like to incorporate all of these websites into a webquest activity for the students. I think that there is only so much a student can learn while watching me manipulate the software in front of the group. If they are given time, students will be able to work at individual paces thus spending more time on areas of difficulty and extending the more familiar areas.
One of my biggest challenges will be securing computers for the length of time needed. I would like for each student to have the opportunity to work alone but confer with their lab table; however, I may have to settle for the students working in pairs. This may not turn out to be an issue, as some students are more comfortable asking questions when they are working with someone else. Either way, I want to make sure that I have access to the computer lab or the laptops for as much time as possible, seeing as not all of my students have internet access.
