Multiple Subject Curriculum & Pedagogy: Mathematics & Science

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to designing elementary math and science lessons using inquiry. Three big ideas drive the instruction and activities for this course (based on How People Learn, 2000): (1) That young learners enter the classroom with prior knowledge of math and science that needs to be addressed during instruction; (2) Each lesson should be designed around a limited number of learning goals that deepen a learner’s conceptual framework about math and/or science; (3)In addition to providing opportunities for the teacher to assess student thinking, lessons must provide students opportunities to monitor and reflect upon their own learning. Additionally, as promoted by the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics ([CCSS-M], CDE, 2013) and Next Generation Science Standards ([NGSS], NGSS Lead States, 2013), course activities and discussions will focus on how lessons should provide learners with opportunities to learn how knowledge in math and science is constructed and communicated by practitioners of those fields (i.e. Mathematicians & Scientists). The work completed during this course will help candidates learn to evaluate existing elementary curriculum/resources and be able to modify them when needed. Individuals must have a Certificate of Clearance to complete fieldwork assigned in the course. Individuals taking this course must earn at least a B- for the course to count towards preliminary credential. Section information text: Prerequisite: EDUC 300 or EDUC 401 Requires Certificate of Clearance (COC). See Dept of Education and Child Development.