STEM and 5 E's Strategy

Each time I plan a lesson, I try to incorporate all of these strategies.  It is sometimes hard to enage 22 four year olds all the time though.  I usually break themn into smaller groups. As I planned this lesson, I tried to find a way to catch their attention.  I did this by setting up a laboratory on my table.  This had the kids asking questions and they were curious.  We then read the book, Mouse Paint, and as we read I checked for understanding by asking questions.  As I read, I explained why the colors did what they did in the book.  Then, it was time for them to be scientists.  They had their own test tubes and stirring rods, and goggles (like little scientists).  Next, we went back through the book and did exactly what the mice did using food coloring and water.  They had to predict what color it would make when lixed together.  We connected it to the colors we already knew, spelled the color words, and then a speaker came in to talk to us about his job.  He is a painter and talked about the importance of his job.  Last, I questioned each child to see if they new what colors when mixed together would make what colors they made.  I do plan to implement this lesson because I think my students will love it.  I also tied in more standards than just science.  I used language and literacy, arts, science, and social studies all in this one lesson.