From Classroom Challenges to Science Confidence: How a Grade 6 Teacher Prepares Students for High School Science

Teaching Science at the elementary level comes with unique challenges, especially when students are expected to eventually transition to more complex subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in high school. For Reyzhen Pontipedra, a Grade 6 Science teacher in Biñan, Laguna, one of the biggest challenges is helping students grasp scientific vocabulary and concepts early on.

“As a Science teacher, one of my main challenges is teaching the vocabulary and the concepts involved in the subject,” she shares.

She explains that building familiarity with scientific terms can help students become more confident when they reach when they reach the next level of Science learning. Her goal is to prepare learners early so they can better understand Science and engage more deeply with the subject.  

This commitment led her to explore new ways of teachingand eventually to discover the GBF STEM Collab community. 

GBF STEM Collab, one of the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation’s programs for teachersis a dynamic community of STEM educators across the country, enhancing their knowledge and skills through learning sessions, community engagement, and peer learning. 

Through the communityReyzhen came across a webinar about teaching Science Investigatory Projects (SIP), a requirement typically introduced in high school. Instead of seeing it as too advanced, she saw an opportunity to bring it into her classroom. 

Teacher Reyzhen Watching a GBF STEM Collab Webinar

After attending the session, she applied what she learned by simplifying the step-by-step process of SIP for her Grade 6 students. 

“Even though the subject is usually for high school, I simplified it to be more appropriate for my Grade 6 students,” she explains. 

By introducing investigatory thinking earlier, Reyzhen helps her students develop curiosity, critical thinking, and a stronger foundation in scientific inquiry, which they will carry into higher levels of learning. 

Teacher Reyzhen Science Class Now More Confident

Beyond the classroom strategies, Reyzhen also values the support system that GBF STEM Collab provides. 

“This is a big help for teachers, because it’s not only students who need support—teachers need it too,” she shares. 

Through webinars and shared learning experiences, teachers are able to strengthen their practice and continuously grow. More importantly, the community fosters a sense of connection. 

Teacher Reyzhen's Co-Teachers are also Ka-Collabs

“GBF STEM Collab is not just about webinars. We also gain a family of teachers that support one another, she adds. 

Teacher Reyzhen’s story highlights a powerful idea: when teachers are supported, they are better equipped to support their students. 

Through GBF STEM Collab, she continues to refine her teaching to help young learners navigate Science with confidence and preparing them for future learning in STEM. 

 

Stay connected with a growing community of educators committed to improving STEM learning across the Philippines. 

Follow us on Facebook for the latest webinars, teaching resources, and opportunities designed to support STEM educators.