The experiments in Physical Science Activities for the Primary Grades engage first through third grade students in the exploration of concepts covering water, air, energy, gravity, electricity, and magnetism. The lessons presented encourage students to take a constructivist approach to learning as they develop inquiry skills. Throughout this course, teachers will create an environment in which they work together with their students as active learners. In addition, students will increase their understanding of physical science through the presentation of investigations that allow them to manipulate common objects and materials found in their environment. The course content will allow students to not only be involved in learning experiences that answer simple questions but also communicate the results of those experiences to others. Teachers will be provided with background information for each experiment so that they may encourage alternative explanations and develop critical and logical thinking in their students.
Physical Science Activities for the Elementary Classroom will encourage teachers in grades 4, 5, and 6 to create an environment in which they work together with their students as active learners. Students will develop an understanding of physical science as they engage in activities dealing with magnetism, air, gravity, energy, and the properties of water. The lessons presented require that students take a constructivist approach to learning as they develop inquiry skills. The experiments in this course will allow students to observe, collect data, apply knowledge, communicate, and reflect on what they have learned. The basis for this learning is the manipulation of objects commonly found in the students’ environment, which naturally stimulates their curiosity. Teachers will be provided with background information for each experiment so that they may support alternative explanations and develop critical and logical thinking in their students. This information will also allow the teacher to meet the particular needs of their students and build on their questions and ideas.
Explore the major events in the history of astronomy as you journey through our solar system through readings, multimedia presentations and observations. The primary goal of this course is to expand your understanding of the night sky through active investigations. As you strengthen your knowledge of the solar system, you will develop standards-based lessons and activities to enrich your own science curriculum.
In this course you will discover the vastness of our universe as you learn about celestial objects such as galaxies, black holes, stars and nebula. You will explore deep space and intergalactic activities through multimedia, including the wealth of resources found on the Internet. As you complete the course requirements you will develop lessons and activities to enrich your science curriculum.
The natural history of the San Francisco Bay is explored through pertinent readings, multimedia, and the rich resources found on the Web. Participants selecting to visit San Francisco as part of the optional field study will have the opportunity to visit a number of interpretive centers located around San Francisco Bay.
This course is designed to provide individuals with an overview of marine biology and ocean ecology. The primary goal of the course is to develop a broad understanding of ocean flora and fauna and also how ocean waters circulate and affect the world’s climate. Course participants have the opportunity to engage in an optional travel experience where they will visit The Monterey Bay Aquarium as well as other areas of interest.
The natural history of Yellowstone National Park is explored through readings, multimedia, and the rich resources found on the Web.. Participants selecting to visit Yellowstone as part of the optional field study will have the opportunity to visit museums, visitor centers and walk self-guided nature trails.
The course is designed to introduce individuals to the natural history of Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada Mountains ecosystem. The flora, fauna, and geological uniqueness of the Sierras are explored through readings, multimedia, and the rich resources found on the Web.. Participants selecting to visit Yosemite as part of the optional field study will have the opportunity to visit museums, visitor centers and walk self-guided nature trails.