This post is part of our Walk This Way series, designed to share The Walking Classroom experiences of teachers and students across the United States. This post provides a glimpse into Amy Schott’s class.
Hello! Welcome to my fifth grade Walking Classroom! Today I want to talk about a hidden gem in the podcasts, the podcast on Dr. Inez Fung (5-#9, STEM-#38).
This is one Walking Classroom podcast I have always skipped, since I was not familiar with the name, and didn’t spend the time to investigate. However, when I took the time to listen to the podcast, I discovered the health message and content completely align with my curriculum and perfectly complement each other!
Health Message Hits the Heart
At the beginning of the year, we study the human body and body systems. After all, students need to understand the function of the body systems and how the systems interact.
The health message which starts the podcast explains how oxygen is drawn in by the lungs, but is essential for the entire body. The connection between the heart and oxygen is also made for those listening. What a great review and reminder for the students!
Creating Connections
The podcast then moves into talking about Dr. Inez Fung (a Professor of Atmospheric Science at University of California – Berekeley). Students hear about the importance of plants in the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen. What a great tie-in with the health tip!
Beyond this, my students have already studied ecosystems and read about a scientist in the rainforest. By listening to this podcast, they are provided an opportunity to connect, compare and contrast two intelligent, successful women.
Wrapping Up
The discussion questions and quiz are exceptional with this podcast. Students not only have to understand the science content, but they have to look towards solutions, sequence, and address character traits.
From beginning to end, this is the ideal podcast to share with someone wanting to know how you can use instructional time for a walk. Happy Trails!
Amy Schott
Fifth Grade Teacher
Fox Road Magnet Elementary
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