veski inspiring students lesson 1: when I grow up

Overview 

This video provides a basis for a classroom discussion about a career in science. It explores what inspired three leading scientists in their journey into science. They talk about their interest in science related topics as children, and how their studies and careers choices have led to this point.

It is suitable for high school students, possibly those going into senior school and considering studying science-based subjects. It provides a basis for career modelling. For younger students, this video gives an insight into what scientists do.

Professor Kai Wucherpfennig leads a team in the Department of Cancer Immunology & AIDS at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and in the Department of Neurology at Harvard Medical School. Dr Matthew Call and Dr Melissa Call work within the Structural Biology Division of The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. All three have worked together in Boston.

Key objectives

• Understand that there are different pathways to a career in science.
• Understand that collaboration and communication are necessary for science research.
• Have a better understanding that working in science doesn’t always mean research, and be able to identify other scientific related areas.

Background information

• Video (4 minutes 24 seconds)
• Biography: Dr Melissa Call
• Biography: Prof. Kai Wucherpfennig
• Biography: Dr Matthew Call
• Glossary of key terms
• Lesson guide

Activities

• Activity 1: Classroom discussion 
• Activity 2: Webquest
• Activity 3: Essay and poster ideas
• Activity 4: What can I do with my science knowledge?
• Activity 4 resource: PowerPoint Presentation – Science Careers

Categories

careers in science, science study, global collaboration