INNOVATIVE COMPOSITE RESEARCH MODELED IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM

摘要

Finding means by which teachers may effectively convey science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles to middle school students is often difficult. A Framework for K-12 Science Education (NRC 2012) suggests "the actual doing of science or engineering can pique students' interest, and motivate their continued study." It is also important when developing STEM practices for middle school students to anchor the concepts in real-world situations in order for students to make tangible connections. In addition, the Framework states that "engaging in engineering practice helps students form an under-standing of the work of engineers as well as the links between engineering and science" (NRC 2012). With this in mind, two middle school teachers collaborated with a University of Maine professor to develop a unique means for students to explore how composites (mixtures) can be designed to create materials with more desirable properties. Working in conjunction with the Forest Bioproducts Research Institute, the authors developed an in-quiry-based middle school investigation. This activity can be used to emphasize the importance of trees as a natural resource in addition to utilizing engineering practices. Since trees and wood products are ubiquitous and touch everyone's lives in forms like paper, cardboard, plywood, and lumber, students everywhere will be able to relate to the importance of wood and wood products.