Each time you use a new academic word, reposition the language into a form that is more like “talking
science” than using conversational language (Lemke 1990). Repositioning involves modeling the
more formal patterns of scientific language. Students will begin to differentiate this type of talk from
informal language.
and prepare to supply or reveal the
scientific word for the student. For
example, you will need to introduce
the concept and vocabulary of “fair
test” and help students establish
“base line data” for comparison. As
students measure the sand (Figure
2) needed in the stream table, reveal
the technical name for the pan balance
while you describe how to use