5th Grade Teachers Share their Classroom Management Suggestions

Here is how I implement the S'COOL program. It takes consistent training up front to properly identify the clouds, etc. and to model how to fill out the observation form. During this training/observation period, I am on the look-out for students that show a strong interest in atmospheric science and have keen observation skills.

In September, I begin our "Weather and Climate unit. This involves using the S'COOL materials, the textbook, the newspaper to track the weather, and the Internet. Students are divided into four groups. For the first two weeks, we went outside as a class and made our observations. Then, using the computer and the big screen TV, the students were trained in how to access the S'COOL website to log in the information. The students also access Weather.com, so they can fill out the online data form about current temp., etc.

After a 4 week intensive unit on clouds and weather, I have the "student of the week" do the observations and log in online. This "student of the week" is assisted by one or two Junior Scientists that I have identified as having superior knowledge and interest in the weather unit. Because my classroom is located next to the side exit/entrance and our room is surrounded by windows, I can trust the two students to conduct the observation with minimal teacher intervention.

Sherry Sansone
Charles Upson Elementary School
Lockport, NY

Have you found another good way to implement S'COOL? Send us a note and we'll post it here to share with other teachers.

S'COOL What to Observe Report Form Glossary