Elem Sci Methods

Catalog description

This course is designed to help prospective elementary school teachers develop a foundation level understanding of “3-Dimensional” science & engineering practices, crosscutting concepts (or common themes) & disciplinary core ideas, as well as the science pedagogical content knowledge to creatively use research-informed, best practice Curriculum resources, Instructional strategies and Assessment techniques. The “lessons learned” will enable you to safely & effectively explore the wonders of science with children ages 5-12 (grades K-6) as aligned with the NYSED Elementary (K-4) & Intermediate (5-8) Science Core Curriculum and, the Next Generation Science Standards (with explicit links to the CCSS-ELA + Mathematics). Emphasis will be placed on constructivist teaching cycles (5E: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate & Evaluate) built around safe, hands-on/minds-on science activities the use inexpensive, household type materials (e.g., toys, grocery store materials & “garbage”) and children’s literature/tradebooks to lead to an understanding of how key science concepts work in our everyday lives. As such, students will be expected to develop as creative, reflective practitioners by alternating between the roles of student and teacher by doing, thinking, and writing/talking about science and science education. Offered: spring.