Textbooks As Tools
JigSaw
Physical Science students each read a different section of a chapter about energy. Next they wrote a summary about what they read. Then that information is added to their energy projects. At the end everyone presents their project and what they learned including the information from the section they read. Once all students have presented all students have heard the information in the chapter as it relates to the projects they have done. This gives each student a responsibility as well as the flexibility to choose the type of project they would like to demonstrate their understanding. This also strengthens the communication and collaboration aspect of the scientific process.
Assessment Tool
Life Science students answering SOL test prep questions and chapter review questions for me to gauge how they are learning and where they need more assistance.
Discussion
After students are presented with information and have hands on experience. Students are assigned a section to read and have questions to answer. Students share their answers the next day and discuss them. The rules for the discussion are that students have to listen to each other even if they don't agree with each other and they each have to support their answers.