Theresa Taylor--What We Call Misconceptions.....

Prior to reading the article on misconceptions, I have always started new concepts with what they know about it and we share it on a sticky and place it on a poster so know one knows who wrote the answer.  I then read it aloud and we discuss.  Anything that is "not correct" I briefly explain and then when we get to that in out lessons I make sure to go over it in detail to correct their understanding.  I never thought about using strategies to let students learn when they are ready.  

I came from Las Vegas, Nevada and the district was just getting into "academic conversations" and allowing students to discuss and share their thoughts.  This is a great strategy and learning opportunity for students if the teacher sets the correct stage.  

Having students repair their misconceptions by using different strategies to have the students make sense of their "mistakes."  Having the teacher ask pertinent questions during lessons gives the students opportunities to expand their knowledge on the concepts.  Having the teachers check for understanding multiple times during the lesson is important.  This allows the teacher to check on any new misconceptions the students may have and hopefully clear up any old ones.

This year when I was teaching the solar system to the 7th graders, a student told the class and I that stars disappear during the day and they are NOT in the sky."  WOW.  She stated she was never told any different by her teachers and her parents/ family.  I also had a student in 6th grade asked how the lungs make carbon dioxide.  She stated she has always been told that carbon dioxide is exhaled by the lungs therefore the lungs make it.  Again, WOW.  Assisting with those types of misconceptions can be difficult.  

This misconceptions came from know one assisting with the correction.  I have said this a couple times in my postings, but coming from a MS/HS environment where all you teach is science. That is where all your time is focused:  science.  In elementary school they are the keepers of ALL subjects especially, math, reading, and English.  

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