Introduction

As mentioned in our prior overview of STEM Sims [http://nstacommunities.org/blog/2017/02/06/stem-sims-interactive-simulations-for-the-stem-classroom/], this interactive software package provides over 100 simulations of laboratory experiments and engineering design products for the STEM classroom. The simulation titled “Trench Attack” immerses students in World War I trench warfare. This simulation has the student assume the role of a military commander using chemical agents against enemy forces to win a battle. During the simulation, students explore how chemical agents (e.g., mustard gas) can affect the environment. As is the case with all STEM Sims software, Trench Attack is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (MS-ETS1.A –Defining and Delimiting an Engineering Problem) and is compatible with state standards as well.

The simulation provides students with a brochure (see link below) that includes a pre-assessment quiz and introductory information about the use of chemical agents in warfare. Moreover, the simulation includes background information on science and historical content. The integration of historical information is a great opportunity for science and history teachers to work together on a WWI Unit across the curriculum. 

Brochure: https://stemsims.com/content/brochures/trench-attack-brochure.pdf

The STEM Sims provides three separate lesson plans for this simulation (see links below), which will help you tailor it for your curriculum. As is the case for other STEM Sims packages, a multiple-choice assessment is included with a Teacher Guide.

Lesson Plan 1: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/trench-attack-lesson-1.pdf

Lesson Plan 2: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/trench-attack-lesson-2.pdf

Lesson Plan 3: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/trench-attack-lesson-3.pdf

Teacher Guide: https://stemsims.com/content/teacher-guides/trench-attack-teacher.pdf

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, Trench Attack is an excellent simulation that will stimulate students’ interest and engage them in learning chemistry. Moreover, the potential for the assimilation of instruction into both science and history content is an added benefit of this highly dynamic learning tool.  If you are looking for something to create a bridge between history and science, Trench Attack Makes the connection.

For a free trial, visit https://stemsims.com/account/sign-up

Recommended System Qualifications:

• Operating system: Windows XP or Mac OS X 10.7
• Browser: Chrome 40, Firefox 35, Internet Explorer 11, or Safari 7
• Java 7, Flash Player 13

Single classroom subscription: $169 for a 365-day subscription and includes access for 30 students and 100 simulations.

Product Site: https://stemsims.com/

Edwin P. Christmann is a professor and chairman of the secondary education department and graduate coordinator of the mathematics and science teaching program at Slippery Rock University in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. Anthony Balos is a graduate student and a research assistant in the secondary education program at Slippery Rock University in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania.

Learning to Read the Earth and Sky: Explorations Supporting the NGSS by Russ Colson and Mary Colson is a new book from NSTA Press that helps teachers of grades 6-12 create lessons and activities aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

The objective of the book is to be practical, easy-to-use, and applicable to the classroom. The book is based on four premises:

1. Earth science should engage students with the world they know.
2. Teacher and student are colleagues and fellow scholars.
3. Doing earth science requires breaking big concepts into smaller chunks.
4. The purpose of experimental and observational activities in the classroom is to practice doing science, and not to convey factual information in an active and “hands-on” way.

The authors have deep experience in using the fascinating world around us to teach and engage students. While the book delves into the requisite standards, it also breaks down the disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and significant ideas that make it all relevant to students.

“Our goal in writing this book is to provide concrete examples of classroom exploration that meet the ambitious goals of the NGSS to both teach science as a practice and reach toward an understanding of how all the small parts fit into the greater whole,” the authors state.

Learning to Read the Earth and Sky offers examples of how to teach students to read the stories that are written in layers of rock, in the stars, and everywhere around us.  The book offers anecdotes, activities, and strategies for getting students to take ownership of their learning. “Addressing aspects of our universe that students see and experience, and teaching students to read those stories on their own, gives them ownership in the process of discovery,” the authors state.

Read the sample chapter “Analyzing and Interpreting Data.” This book is also available as an e-book.

Save Now on Book Purchases!

Between now and May 31, 2017, save $15 off your order of $75 or more of NSTA Press books or e-books by entering promo code BOOK17 at checkout in the online Science Store. Offer valid only on orders placed of NSTA Press books or e-books on the web and may not be combined with any other offer.

Follow NSTA

Save