This course offers an analysis and practical look at the most effective methods of planning and teaching science in a Grade 6-12 classroom. The major emphasis of the course is the development of a subject-area instructional unit appropriate to candidate’s teaching situation (urban, suburban, or rural) that will include activities and strategies in such areas as cross-curricular, differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, integration and indirect teaching methods.
This course also highlights the vision for K-12 science education as described in the Massachusetts Science and Technology/Engineering Frameworks, as well the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
Microteaching instructional experiences in science will mirror NGSS strategies as well as focus on specific components of lesson planning and lesson presentation in keeping with the Massachusetts Science and Technology/Engineering Curriculum Frameworks
Content related to the MA Science and Technology/Engineering Curriculum Frameworks. Engaging Science teaching approaches, assessment in the domains of science, epistemology of and approaches to teaching science education.
Effective science teaching requires disciplinary knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, and knowledge of pedagogy; that teaching Science requires knowing students, engaging students in critical and higher-order thinking, teaching students "life-long learning" skills, and presenting students with multiple perspectives
Develop lesson and unit plans in science education,
Develop a variety of types of assessment tools, both instructor and student-designed, including collaborative, formative, and summative types of assessment
Reflect on teaching practice
Focus on practical investigation and modeling of student-centered and activity-based methods designed to meet the individual needs of a diverse student population.
These will be placed in the larger context of: (1) learning about student learning/thinking, (2) addressing the needs of a diverse student population, and (3) developing "habits of mind" that foster participation in society as informed, confident, and responsible citizens of the world.