EDUC 2307 Teaching Science in Elementary Schools

Abstract

The goal of this course is to support pre-service elementary teachers in becoming effective new teachers of science. We will focus on pedagogies of science teaching and work together to ensure that each pre-service teacher can: -create and evaluate standards-aligned science activities and lessons using the 5E model -use effective strategies to equitably engage diverse populations in science -construct explanations of key elementary science content for grades 1-6 through inquiry methods of learning -apply and evaluate effective instructional techniques (demos, inquiry, labs, models) -facilitate elementary science talk focused on sense-making ___ Science unites content knowledge and science practices in the construction of new understandings about the natural and human world. The science standards use phenomena to drive three-dimensional learning, which includes science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and crosscutting concepts. Engineering is about designing a solution to a real-world problem, using key understandings from disciplinary core ideas and key competencies from science and engineering practices. Science requires literacy skills and mathematical thinking. ___ What does effective planning and teaching, that includes all learners, look like in elementary science teaching? How can inquiry-based, three-dimensional science standards be implemented in elementary classrooms? What teacher planning and facilitation tools help students engage in productive sense-making conversations?