ACTIVITY 6.4: Evaluating an STS Module

The purpose of this inquiry activity is for you or a team of peers to evaluate an STS module using criteria established by the STS Task Force.

Materials

An STS module of your choice, including the equipment module if one is provided.

Procedure

1. Examine the STS module in light of the following criteria. Complete the chart

(Figure 1) for each criteria.

 

Figure 1. STS Evaluation Chart

STS Criteria

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

Societal Relevance of the Issue

 

 

 

 

Relate STS

 

 

 

 

Self & Society

 

 

 

 

Balance of Views

 

 

 

 

Broadens Interest

 

 

 

 

Decision-skills

 

 

 

 

Suggested action

 

 

 

 

Introduces some science or quantification

 

 

 

 

2. Determine the curriculum linkages for the module and draw arrows to the appropriate STS connections in the STS Connections Diagram (Figure 2)

 

 

Figure 2. STS Connections Diagram

Minds On Strategies

1. Would you recommend this STS module for use in the science classroom? In what contexts?

2. What evaluation materials were provided?