Lettters to a Young Scientist parts IV and V

Part IV: Theory and The Big Picture

The author of  "Letters to a Young Scientist" begins this section by saying that science is the only way to understand the universe in its entirety. Social sciences and humanities can aid science in explaining the world but it does not fully encompass the entirety of the universe. So many students see science as just a subject they need to pass to move onto their majors in English, history, or psychology. In reality science encompasses everything and even though the subject matter may not be used in an English major or something like that, the skills learned can be used anywhere. Science is about the creative process and divergent thinking. Wilson moves onto the next chapter by introducing the idea that scientist have to see blanks in the explanations we have for things. They have to be able to see what is not there. This is an essential skill for any job that requires problem solving. Even if my students do not master the topic of science that I am teaching I hope that they come out with an ability to think through a problem and find the most logical answer.

Part V Truth and Ethics

Wilson ends this book by encouraging persistence. One trend I have noticed in students is the lack of grit and persistence. In general, when students run into a problem they immediately go to the internet for an answer and the problem is solved. Persistence is an essential trait. Students will not always have the answers available. I aim to demonstrate persistence in my classroom, when I do not know an answer I will work through with the class how I solve problems and I hope that I will scaffold my students to eventually be able to solve problems.

Overall this book is an excellent tool to use in the science classroom. I will use this book in my classroom and share it with the students. Wilson has several inspiring quotes that i will open lessons with, especially at the beginning of the year.

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