ELI5 vs ELI-Sci
Dual Explanation Challenge
- Challenge deep understanding of a chosen topic
- Practice translating complex ideas across styles
- Enhance thinking and language flexibility
- Improve scientific communication
Materials
- Notes/Notebook
- Paper/pencil and/or word processor
Activity Instructions
Step 1: Topic Selection
Choose one of the following topics or select your own complex concept:
- Photosynthesis
- Black Holes
- Quantum Entanglement
- Climate Change
- DNA Replication
- Artificial Intelligence
- Plate Tectonics
Step 2: Research Phase
Conduct thorough research on your chosen topic. Focus on:
- Core scientific principles
- Fundamental mechanisms
- Key terminology
- Recent discoveries or applications
Step 3: ELI5 Explanation Template
Create your “Explain Like I’m Five” version by following these guidelines:
- Use simple, everyday language
- Avoid technical terminology
- Include a relatable analogy or story
- Make the explanation engaging and fun
- Aim for 3-5 sentences maximum
ELI5 Guiding Questions:
- What familiar object or experience could explain this concept?
- How would you describe this to a curious child?
- What visual metaphor might help understanding?
Step 4: ELI-Sci Explanation Template
Develop your scientific explanation using:
- Precise scientific terminology
- Detailed technical descriptions
- Specific scientific processes
- Potential research implications
- Academic writing style
- Aim for 5-7 sentences with technical depth
ELI-Sci Guiding Questions:
- What are the precise molecular/physical mechanisms?
- What scientific nomenclature best describes the process?
- What scholarly sources support these explanations?
- How can you demonstrate scientific rigor?
Step 5: Comparative Analysis
Create a two-column document with:
- Left Column: ELI5 Explanation
- Right Column: ELI-Sci Explanation
Reflection Prompts:
- What challenges did you encounter in each explanation style?
- How does language change the perception of the concept?
- Which explanation do you find more compelling? Why?
Evaluation Criteria
- Accuracy of scientific content
- Clarity of explanation
- Creativity of analogies
- Depth of understanding
- Successful translation between communication styles
Example Template
Topic: Photosynthesis
| ELI5 Explanation |
ELI-Sci Explanation |
| Plants are living food factories! They take sunlight, water, and air, and turn it into their own special lunch. Imagine a leaf as a tiny solar-powered kitchen that makes green plant food. We can eat it, too! |
Photosynthesis is a complex biochemical process wherein chloroplasts utilize captured light energy to catalyze the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose through a cycled-series of light-dependent and light-independent reactions. It primarily involves photosystems I and II and the Calvin cycle. |
Advanced Challenge
For students seeking extra complexity, attempt explanations for:
- Quantum physics concepts
- Advanced mathematical theories
- Cutting-edge technological innovations
Presentation Option
Create a visual presentation or poster showcasing both explanations, highlighting the creative translation between scientific and child-friendly communication.
Final Reflection
Write a one-page reflection discussing:
- Insights gained about scientific communication
- Challenges of translating complex ideas
- Personal growth in understanding the chosen topic
Remember: Great science communication bridges gaps, making complex ideas accessible to everyone!