Elementary Earth Science 

Teacher Academy

Click here to see the draft Units of Study

Click here to see Pictures from the Summer Academy

Geology Field Trip Itinerary (includes geologic maps and diagrams of local fossils)

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

The Elementary Earth Science Teacher Academy will improve participating 3^rd and 4^th grade teachers’ content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and confidence in teaching science using inquiry-oriented, hands-on approaches to science teaching.  Participants will learn to develop and implement units of study, in part by working through a unit of study we design and employ in a 5-day summer academy.  They will be guided to reflect on how and why to use the strategies presented with their own diverse student population. Follow up sessions will be facilitated by our participation in the Kentucky Virtual High School, as well as two face-to-face sessions during the school year.  For follow-up work, participants will analyze student work, discuss their experiences in implementing lessons, and learn alternative assessment strategies for student learning in science.  A team of content and teaching experts will design and facilitate the Elementary Earth Science Teacher Academy with input from KDE staff and practicing teachers.

Participants will receive a $500 stipend for completing the summer academy, and an additional $200 for completing the follow-up activities in the 2004-2005 school year.  Participants will also receive approximately $400 in supplies and materials.