Reviewed by Deb McNabney
Science Educator - retired
From the moment I opened Tried and True, I was nodding my head in approval. It's rare to find a science activity book that so deftly combines pedagogy, practicality, and practice. This 191-page manual contains 40 activities that explore the major science disciplines including life, Earth and space science, physics, and chemistry.
The activities, written by professional educators, were originally published in the "Tried and True" column of NSTA's journal Science Scope. Most include research-based best practices, practical tips, worksheets, rubrics, and references. The "Instructional Strategies" section was my favorite, with a focus on enhancing student inquiry and developing effective classroom management skills. The strength of these activities lies in their flexibility; many can be used in multiple curricular areas and to achieve a variety of curricular goals.
This collection will appeal to experienced and new teachers alike. Veterans will find different takes on old standards, while rookies can take advantage of the "plug-and-play" nature of the manual's design. No matter the level of their teaching experience, middle school science teachers will find Tried and True to be a valuable and practical resource.
Review posted on 4/7/2011