Secondary Science Resources

It is common to have a misunderstanding or misconception about science topics and ideas. These misconceptions are sometimes informed by our observations and experiences that conflict with science fact. Misconceptions are also very resistant to change. For our students who are learning science they may acquire misconceptions through many different ways and it is our responsibility to root out these misconceptions and design learning experiences that allow students to test their ideas to see if what they currently believe is actually supported by evidence. 

The resources listed below offer common misconceptions encountered in science disciplines and related topics. Think of these lists as starting points to identify potential misconceptions. Remember that students will not always communicate their misconceptions so our job is to present a meaningful experience where students illuminate, confront, and re-shape their ideas. Great science teachers think about the high leverage misconceptions in a unit and plan for ways to interrupt them with experiential learning. One way to do this is via the 5 E instructional method. As you plan your lessons and units consider what common misconceptions might be held by students and incorporate them into your lessons