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Bringing Science and Math Into Writing?

Posted by kdawson on from the lighting-the-fire dept.

I am an eighth grade English teacher. As much as I love my subject and believe in the value of skillful writing, I also believe that there is a terrible lack of interest in the sciences and maths among students in general. In some sense, I believe English to be a support subject for the others classes at this grade level. At my school, the average science classroom has time for labs and note taking, but reading and writing on the subject (beside textbooks) is usually limited. Math is in a similar situation: they have time to learn a concept and practice, but not to linger on possibilities. Therefore, I have two questions for the readers of Slashdot: which books / shows / movies caused a curiosity towards these subjects when you were young, and what suggestions do you have for incorporating these subjects into writing?

6 of 434 comments (clear)

  1. MacGyver by www.sorehands.com · · Score: 4, Funny

    MacGyver may be a help. It also will teach thinking and improvising.

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    Fight Spammers!
    1. Re:MacGyver by farkus888 · · Score: 2, Funny

      sadly, that is more true than you might think. I grew up spending all my time watching MacGyver and Baywatch as a young boy. as an adult I have become a complete nerd, if I am not thinking about computers, science, or math I am thinking about breasts. these shows undoubtedly affected the adult I became. and to be honest I think I am proof that exposure to the right shows can really benefit a child later on in life.

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      thats right, I rarely use capitals. deal with it. but don't mistake my laziness for stupidity
  2. Why we didn't want you by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Funny

    Why didn't you want me Mommy?

    Our first child was such a disappointment - he posted bullshit on slashdot and we were SO embarrassed! We couldn't stand the thought that you might be like him.

    Ok, doc, turn on the suction and start slicing!!

  3. Re:You're doomed by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0, Funny

    Honestly, I couldn't care less about their education. Let's face the facts - the stupider children are and the more pathetic their education, the more valuable my knowledge and experience will be as I get much older. That people are breeding stupid, fat, wastes of flesh today simply reassures me of a future full of employment while your children will be relegated to serving my coffee and parking my car.

  4. Re:You're doomed by Archades54 · · Score: 2, Funny

    Set an assignment in how they must use English, Sciences, and Mathematics in a way to get laid. A quest of sorts, it would surely keep interest and creativity at a high.

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    If your neighbours roof is flying past your window, you know it's cyclone season.
  5. Re:You're doomed by skeeto · · Score: 2, Funny

    If they discuss mathematical proofs - as happened at our dinner table [...]

    Son: "Dad, I can't figure out how to prove this one."
    Dad: "Son, you know the rules. No dessert unless you finish your proofs."