What Do Scientists Do?

GM, 2nd grade

For the first entries in their science notebooks, each child drew a scientist and brainstormed, "What do scientists do?"

SA, 3rd grade

CN, 2nd grade

CH, 1st grade

The children came up with: 

• ask questions and wonder
• write in a science notebook
• use tools such as a microscope or hand lens to look closely
• research (study) a subject
• use tools to measure
• travel to other places to get information
• do experiments
• perform tests
• share what they’ve learned with other scientists in a presentation or meeting
• take risks 
• wear protection
• plan what they’re going to do before they do it
• use technology
• think about safety
• write reports and articles to share new information
• gather quantitative and qualitative data
• use charts and graphs
• make predictions
• work well alone and in a group

EG, 3rd grade

While some drawings depicted a stereotypical "mad scientist" in a white lab coat, mixing "potions," it was wonderful to see illustrations of a great variety of scientists, both male and female.  Even more gratifying, just about every girl drew a female scientist!  All of the children envision science as a possibility for them, regardless of gender.  Hooray!

BD, 3rd grade

LM, 2nd grade

NC, 2nd grade

There's a Book for That!
Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty