Planning the Middle School Science Classroom
by James T. Biehle, AIA
"For middle level students, the essence of learning science lies not in memorizing facts, but in carrying out the processes of inquiry by asking questions, making observations, and gathering, organizing and analyzing data." - NSTA Pathways to the Science Standards, Middle School Edition, 1998.
* This article originally appeared in the January 2000 issue of School Planning & Management magazine.
INSTRUCTION
Science teaching has changed significantly in the past five years
or so. Once the teacher lectured to students; now the teacher is a facilitator
who suggests problems to students and encourages them in ways to use
the scientific method to solve these problems. A significant portion
of the middle school science curriculum, therefore, should be inquiry
based, and the facilities provided to serve this curriculum must support
this approach.
SIZE
The two essential commodities needed in a middle school science classroom
are space and flexibility. Avoid fixed casework and inflexible space.
National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) standards recommend a minimum
of 45 sq. ft. per stuent (wall-to-wall) or 1,080 sq. ft. for a 24-student
science classroom. Add 10 sq. ft. per student for preparation and storage
space connected to the classroom. The ceiling should be not less than
10 feet above the floor.
SHAPE
A good middle school science room should be rectangular, but closer
to square in shape. Long, skinny rooms do not provide the flexibility
and clearances necessary for safe, inquiry-based
science instruction. Two entrances are recommended. The preparation/storage room should be adjacent and connected to the classroom (with its own entrance from the corridor, if possible).
ADJACENCY
Middle school science curricula involve some physical science, life science,
earth and space science, and science and technology. Consider locating
the science classroom immediately adjacent to the technology lab to permit
joint usage of both spaces by the two curricula.
STORAGE
The broad range of subject matter involves an equally broad range of materials,
equipment and activities. Storage cabinets and storage space for a variety
of items are essential. Counters should have a variety of base cabinets
with drawer units (including shallow drawers for posters and other flat
items); open space beneath counters for storage of large, heavy objects;
and cabinets with adjustable shelving. Walls should also be used for shelving
and for storage cabinets with hinged, solid front doors.
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