What is a Scientist Identity Activity

Description

Not all scientists wear lab coats or have wild white hair. It’s time to break the stereotype. This powerful What is a Scientist? activity is designed to challenge old ideas and spark new thinking. Because every student deserves to see themselves as a scientist. Yes, even the ones who think they “don’t like science.”

This lesson gets your class talking, thinking, and redefining what science is, and who it’s for. You’ll open the year with meaningful conversations, authentic reflection, and real identity-building work.

Created to help squash the misconception that science is only for a select few, this lesson creates space for students to say: “I am a scientist.”

What’s Included:

• Teacher Background (explains the WHY)
• Student Drawing Prompt: “What does a scientist look like?”
• Writing prompt: “What does a scientist do?”
• Reading passage: “What Is a Scientist?” (student-friendly nonfiction)
• Comprehension questions (multiple choice + open response)

Why Teachers Love It:

• Busts myths about scientists in a simple, age-appropriate way
• Builds science identity from day one
• Promotes equity and representation in STEM
• Easy to prep, meaningful to teach

🧒 Who It’s For:

Perfect for grades 2–5, but easily adaptable for 1st or 6th depending on your students. Works beautifully as a:

• Back-to-school science lesson
• Science identity-building activity
• Reading + writing integration

Bulletin board or hallway display