Scientific Inquiry with Mirrors

In this workshop, teachers guided through explorations at mirrors use experiments to answer questions. Watch how the facilitator uses the practices of science and experimentation—rather than simply transmitting facts and formulas—to support each learner’s conceptual understanding.

10 min

Dig into the Science

Check out the activity in this video and learn more about reflections. Discover for yourself that mirrors don’t reverse up and down—or left and right. Try the Mirror Reversal Science Snack.

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

A simple demonstration can initiate important thinking (2:49)
Establishing techniques with simple examples prepares learners for more complex situations (3:26)
Explorations based on familiar observations and experiences respect the context of the learner (4:17)
Introducing scientific terminology during direct experience with phenomena gives learners context for vocabulary (4:51)
Classroom connections provide relevancy for teachers (5:49)
Responding to questions with investigations, rather than direct answers, illustrates the scientific process while supporting content understanding (6:07)
Anticipating questions and preparing supporting materials can extend learning (8:23)

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.

A group of people holding marshmallows on sticks, standing in a dimly lit room.

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)

An older man, a young woman, and a young man together in an intense conversation.

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)

Three people looking at a smartphone together.

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 person using an electric power tool to work on a piece of machinery or equipment.

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)