Clemmons, K., & Sheehy, C. (2011). Science, Technology and YA lit: Three projects to develop environmental consciousness through reading and technology. The Science Teacher, 78(7), 42-45.

Abstract:

“Science teachers today need engaging projects to help students build 21st-century skills (NSTA 2011). Contemporary young adult literature (YA lit) can form the basis of one such project. YA lit–a genre of fiction geared toward 2 to 20-year-olds–opens a powerful avenue to connect with students and cover science topics in greater depth. YA lit is especially powerful when combined with technology–which is ubiquitous in the lives of young people today. Interactive web 2.0 resources and new software, combined with the motivational potential and meaningful messages found in YA lit, can truly engage students. This kind of pedagogical approach allows teachers to address what students know about themselves, the science subject matter, and the world around them.

This article provides three engaging projects science teachers can use to help students develop environmental consciousness and global awareness–both important 21st-century skills–using YA lit and technology. Figure 1 (p. 44) provides a list of additional YA lit titles for use in the science classroom. (Note: Before assigning any YA lit projects, teachers should always read the books to ensure the language and content are appropriate.)”