Combining History and Science in Nature Studies

​As an educator, I have always placed an emphasis on teaching the nature of science (pun intended). Science is not the practice of memorizing facts. Nor is it simply inquiry into our own questions. Science is the accumulation of knowledge. It is built and refined over time by numerous dedicated individuals. I’ve joked with other educators that science is so important because it combines all other subjects; reading, writing, math and history.  For instance, to truly understand the concept of an atom, my students first learn about the scientists throughout history who have worked on the topic, the different models that each put forth and how through each consecutive experiment, our understanding changed over time resulting in the current model of an atom. 

​My philosophy on the nature of science lead me to purchasing the book Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky. Women in Science profiles 50 plus women scientists in chronological order. Each scientist’s profile includes a brief history, obstacles faced, a quote and major accomplishments. For me, what set this book apart from the others were the illustrations. The illustrations are quirky but cool; informative but approachable. I would recommend this book for a high school student. 

​Several of the scientists profiled in Women in Science were influential in environmental studies. Over the upcoming weeks, I will be highlighting some of these women on In My Backyard. 

One important female environmental scientist was Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717).​ According to Rachel Ignotofsky, Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717) was known for combining accurate scientific observations of insects with artful illustrations. Maria studied an unglamorous subject, insects, but her curiosity inspired an adventurous life traveling from Germany to South America. She is well known for documenting the metamorphosis of the butterfly. 

​Nature Study Tip: Use Maria Sibylla Merian as a case study in observation for your child’s nature journal.

​Start by having a conversation with your child about the role of a scientist. A scientist learns from past discoveries (for example the process of a butterfly’s metamorphosis) and then makes her own careful observations (for example: in my backyard, I always see caterpillars with a yellow stripe). 

​Then explain about Maria’s life and work. Show examples of her illustrations. Be sure to highlight for your child the detail and concentration Maria put into her work, even if it was “just” a picture of a bug. 

​Finally, have your child practice making his or her own scientific illustrations in a nature journal. 

​In my post, 21 Nature Journal Ideas, I gave instructions on how to encourage your child to slow down and make careful observations. 

In part two of this series I continue combing history and science during nature study by focusing on Rachel Carson.