This study explores the ways in which young second language learners in an intact fourth-grade content and language integrated (CLIL) science class drew on the affordances of multiple semiotic resources including language, images, sound, movement, etc., to construct disciplinary knowledge in the context of a multimodal project on machines. After…

Inquiry-based representation-focused approaches in science education have shown promising outcomes when students engage in knowledge building via an active process of constructing, coordinating, and evaluating representations. To date, much of the existing research around these approaches has taken place in pre-digital classrooms, but the…

Presently, it is possible to use virtual learning environments for simulating abstract and/or complex scientific concepts. Multimodal Virtual Learning Environments use multiple sensory stimuli, including haptic feedback, in the representation of concepts. Past research on the utilization of haptics for learning has shown inconsistent results when…

Inquiry-based science instruction can provide a rich context in which to build literacy skills in the elementary grades. The authors discuss the benefits of incorporating reading, writing, and speaking into science instruction. They describe the results of research on two models for combining language arts and science--the Science IDEAS model and…