Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE) Practice Exam

What approach will best promote scientific thinking when children notice puddles have disappeared?

1. Ask where the puddles might have come from

2. Explain why puddles evaporate

3. Show how to paint with water and observe

4. Discuss forms of precipitation

The correct answer is: Show how to paint with water and observe

The choice to show how to paint with water and observe is the most effective way to promote scientific thinking in children when they notice that puddles have disappeared. This hands-on approach encourages active engagement and experimentation, allowing children to directly observe the properties of water as it evaporates during the painting process. By interacting with the concept of water through a creative activity, children can see for themselves how water changes and disappears when exposed to air and heat. This method fosters inquiry-based learning, where children can ask questions and develop hypotheses based on their observations. They might wonder why their painted water disappears, leading to a deeper understanding of processes like evaporation. This experiential learning is crucial at a young age, as it builds a foundation for scientific inquiry and critical thinking skills. In contrast, simply asking where the puddles might have come from or explaining why puddles evaporate may not engage the children as effectively. These approaches could lead to passive learning, where children receive information without actively exploring or questioning, which is essential for developing a scientific mindset. Discussing forms of precipitation is also valuable but does not directly relate to the observed phenomenon of disappearing puddles or stimulate immediate investigation of evaporation.