Air and Air Pressure. A Language Development Unit for Science. Earth, Space and Time. Grades One, Two and Three.

One of the basic principles of the Language Development Approach is that students must learn the language necessary to understand, talk, and write about all subject areas in order to succeed in school. This book contains information about teaching primary school science in the Northwest Territories with lessons that emphasize language. The goals of the unit are to (1) develop student language proficiency; (2) provide opportunities for students to use language in many different situations and for many different purposes; (3) develop student listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking skills including the science process skills; and (4) expand student knowledge of the science concepts related to air and air pressure. Following a section on resources (background information, resources included with this unit--illustrations, related English materials--magazines, lists of children's books about kites, balloons, airplanes, etc., teacher's resources, films, ets., and related aboriginal language materials), lesson plans for grades one, two, and three on four topics (properties of air/balloons, air exerts pressure, how air presssure helps/hinders, and effects of air on temperature) are presented. Activity ideas for science/social studies, mathematics, language arts, music/poems/stories, art, physical education/movement, and special activities are suggested. Each lesson plan contains the follwing segments--exercises or activities: science concepts, English vocabulary, English sentence patterns, English language concepts, special materials required, concept development/language exposure, language practice, and application. Poems, songs, and stories on this subject conclude the guide. The lessons are appropriate for students whose first language is English as well as for students who are learning English as a second language. (PR/CW)