Collaborative Learning with Earth and Moon

In this workshop, teachers collaborate to make physical models representing the earth’s relationship with the moon. Watch as participants interact with one another, use simple tools to approach complex concepts, challenge misconceptions, and rely on personal experience to solve problems.

13 min

Dig into the Science

Check out the activity in this video and learn more about the earth and moon. Use different-sized spheres to explore the relative sizes of the two celestial bodies and the distances between them. Try the Earth and Moon Science Snack.

We've highlighted several moments of pedagogical interest in this video.

Personal observations are key to content understanding (0:26)
Highlighting principles from education research adds context to learning (1:22)
Open-ended activities that result in multiple outcomes promote questioning and discussion (3:15)
Allowing learners to share their thoughts before introducing established science allows space for independent thinking (5:00)
Applying new knowledge reinforces learning (5:47)
Encouraging analysis and estimation emphasizes concepts over details (6:15)
Integrating new concepts with existing mental models is critical to developing new understanding (8:22)
Encouraging diverse approaches to problem solving offers opportunities for ownership and innovation (9:31)
Making connections to classroom practice is an essential element of professional learning (12:12)

Explore the core elements of our program

Watch these short videos to explore some of the core elements that guide our interactions with teachers, and serve as building blocks for our programs and workshops. Hear what participants and staff have to say, and consider the ways in which these elements might strengthen your own work with teachers.

Teachers as Learners

“I so look forward to coming, and being a learner again.” (4 min)

Professional Home

“It’s a lifelong continuum.” (7 min)

Meeting Learners Where They Are

“Every student feels successful on their own terms.” (4 min)

Learning Is Joyful

“There’s fun. And there’s joy. And there’s awe.” (4 min)

Learn Science by Doing Science

“That’s a great way to find the truth: Do it yourself.” (6 min)

Teachers Supporting Teachers

“They’re all learning together.” (6 min)

A Culture of “Yes”

“It’s like loaning people hope and confidence.” (4 min)

Connecting to the Classroom

“A piece of paper and a paper clip, and you have a sundial.” (4 min)

Experience a workshop

Immerse yourself in four different workshops to get a sense of our professional-learning experiences and environments. On each video, pedagogical annotations highlight moments that support science learning. You can turn these annotations on or off, depending on your needs.

Collaborative Learning with Earth and Moon

Watch teachers work together to understand natural phenomena. (13 min)

Instructor teaching Colored Shadows workshop

Facilitation with Colored Shadows

Notice how careful questioning guides learners to develop understanding using evidence. (22 min)

Instructor and teacher as student using a ruler in an activity

Scientific Inquiry with Mirrors

See how everyday questions can be answered through experimentation. (10 min)

Teachers with pinhole cameras on their heads being guided outside

Community Construction with Pinholes

Explore how building together supports understanding and community. (15 min)