My Philosophy
In my classroom, I engage each of my students and encourage each student to find what it is they like about science as well as what it is they do not like, or do not understand. Upon doing so, each student is asked to approach the course as if they need the information.
Additionally, I hope to open the eyes of each student to the scope of the course, whether it be Astronomy or Physical Science. I want my students to understand how their every day is influenced by the laws and theories we discuss throughout the year.
Further, I encourage the use of technology to provide additional support beyond the textbook and classroom discussion.
My Astronomy students use FLIP video cameras to video interviews with the general public on topics ranging from Astronomy Misconceptions to Cosmology and the 'end' of the Universe. Also, Astronomy students are encouraged to use Starry Night (provided with text) and the internet for reasearch projects.
Physical Science students will learn through Project Lead the Way - Gateway to Technology. Students will explore technology, innovate and collaborate, while solving challenging problems. Additionally, students acquire knowledge of physical concepts through the rigorous Project Lead the Way curriculum. Throughout the school year Physical Science students will be required to complete several collaborative robotics design projects using VEX robotics kits. During these projects students will use AuotDesk Inventor (FREE AutoDesk Software for Educators and Students) to produce three-dimensional renderings of their design and Robot-C to program, or automate their designs.
Students are also encouraged to use the Microsoft Office suite, or other similar products (e.g. Open Office, Google Docs) for assignments. In addition, all assignments are submitted to the course SharePoint site where students can view other student work, participate in discussions, post announcements, as well as create blogs and wikis.
Additionally, I hope to open the eyes of each student to the scope of the course, whether it be Astronomy or Physical Science. I want my students to understand how their every day is influenced by the laws and theories we discuss throughout the year.
Further, I encourage the use of technology to provide additional support beyond the textbook and classroom discussion.
My Astronomy students use FLIP video cameras to video interviews with the general public on topics ranging from Astronomy Misconceptions to Cosmology and the 'end' of the Universe. Also, Astronomy students are encouraged to use Starry Night (provided with text) and the internet for reasearch projects.
Physical Science students will learn through Project Lead the Way - Gateway to Technology. Students will explore technology, innovate and collaborate, while solving challenging problems. Additionally, students acquire knowledge of physical concepts through the rigorous Project Lead the Way curriculum. Throughout the school year Physical Science students will be required to complete several collaborative robotics design projects using VEX robotics kits. During these projects students will use AuotDesk Inventor (FREE AutoDesk Software for Educators and Students) to produce three-dimensional renderings of their design and Robot-C to program, or automate their designs.
Students are also encouraged to use the Microsoft Office suite, or other similar products (e.g. Open Office, Google Docs) for assignments. In addition, all assignments are submitted to the course SharePoint site where students can view other student work, participate in discussions, post announcements, as well as create blogs and wikis.