Musical Parody: A Fun Science Video Trend

Hey everyone!

Here on Steve and Kirk’s Science Video blog, we are always looking for new and exciting videos that can be used in a school setting to help students learn about science. One of the really cool things that has come from the ease of use of sites like YouTube and editing software like iMovie is that there is an abundance of content available and no lack of creativity.  No longer do we have to rely solely on clips from Bill Nye the Science Guy (sorry Bill, we love you, but this is a good thing). Instead, we have access to tons of resources ranging from animated clips helping to visualize what may be going on at a molecular level to study aids of various levels and subjects.  One of my favorite trends in the science video community is the parody of hit songs by changing the lyrics to talk about subjects of science. A great example of this is this video, titled Evo-Devo (Despacito Biology Parody) by A Capella Science:

This video parodied the song Despacito, which itself has over six billion views on YouTube, in a “Weird Al” fashion to make it about evo-devo, or evolutionary developmental biology. The lyrics relate to things that may be taught in class, and students can use it both to help learn the subject as well as to reinforce what they may have already learned. Perhaps most importantly, it is presented in a fun manner that connects with students in a current and relevant fashion. I think that these types of videos can be very useful in the classroom when used properly, so make sure to keep an eye out for ones that you like! I know we will!

Blog uses for a high school teacher

As shown in earlier posts below, blogs are a convenient way to share hyperlinks. By surfing through other blogs, it is quite apparent that there are a multitude of other uses for blogs. Listed below are some ideas for use in a high school class setting.

Blogging aimed at parents, to inform them of what has been taught, what is coming up, events, and other information. A good way to improve parent involvement. No doubt that more involved parents will benefit a students learning.

Blog for students focusing on announcements of what is coming up. An easy way to help students stay focused on assignments and homework due.

An interactive blog, developing conversations and exchange of ideas amongst students. These could extend in-class discussions, or run on a parallel track wth school work.

Projects based blogs where students lead with blogs, and develop discussions amongst students. A good way to share projects with other students, promoting peer to peer learning, and another use of media rich technology.

There a many other uses for blogs. Their proper use is predicated on a good year nderstanding of digital citizenship.

Get blogging!

new ideas

Critical to blogging has to be updated with new posts. Nothing more boring than looking at stale (though sometimes still useful!) material.
Video links are easily added!

High school chemistry Experiments
video of experiments done by Real Learning Center, a company that sells online education via rich media

Photosynthesis experiment
video of a simple way to show big concepts, done by a group of volunteers who started a neighborhood science club in a village in Pakistan. This kind of material also brings in a global touch to teaching, allowing for discussion around diversity.