Session 2. Learning Conversations and Ocean Currents

This session focuses on learning conversations, the purpose and value in learning and ways to support students engaging in academic discussions. Participants explore ocean currents through multiple activities that include a hands-on investigation and observing a computer animation. They construct an explanation for what causes ocean currents and consider evidence-based responses to alternative explanations that are presented. Participants interpret and analyze data as a source of evidence and explore the benefits and limitations of using only simulated data vs. raw data to identify patterns. The session provides an opportunity to reflect on the role of conversation in meaning making, engagement in a research discussion on classroom conversations, and sharing of resources to support creating a classroom culture of talk and supporting students in reflective discourse.

• Session 2. Write-Up
• Session 2. Slideshow
• Session 2. Handouts: Research Discussion: Talking and Learning; Learning Conversations (Discussion Checklist; Discussion Map; Sample Norms & Expectations; Strategies for Establishing a Culture of Talk; Strategies to explore Multiple Ideas) Activity handouts (eWOCE OceanTemperature; Investigating Ocean Currents Worksheet; Ocean Current Directions; Molecule Cards); Readings (Hotaling, 2005; Hugs and McNeil, 2008); Ocean Currents First Ideas and Ocean Currents Revised Ideas; Climate Science Ideas and Homework.