| Summer Science and Math at the U of MN | |
| Schoolyard Ecology Explorations for Elementary Teachers | |
Target grades: 2-6
Share the thrill of discovery with your students using simple schoolyard inquiry techniques. Take two weeks this summer to train your eye to view your schoolyard as a resource for student investigations. Expert classroom teachers and U of M scientists will teach field techniques for studying plants and animals in urban, suburban and rural habitats. Teachers will deepen their understanding of ecology and research during two days at the Cedar Creek Natural History Area, meeting with ecologists and touring their research sites. We will explore the broad to the specific as we experience long-term research and discuss connections to schoolyard studies. The inquiry focus of the course is woven into the study of ecological sustainability, with field and classroom study of the relationship between biodiversity and long-term ecosystem health. Course activities include plenty of time to learn from expert elementary teachers who use their schoolyards and gardens for student inquiry. Master Gardeners will be available to help you develop or enhance a schoolyard garden. Teachers will collaborate in grade specific groups to integrate these experiences into their curriculum and to address standard requirements.
"Best class I’ve had in my education career!"
"The content and faculty are awesome!"
- 2006 participant quotes
Course dates and location: June 25 - 29 and July 23 - 27
Instructors: Susan Barrott (U of M Scientist), Lis Young-Isebrand (High School teacher), Harmony Lewis (Elementary Teacher), Ann Mock (Elementary teacher) and Ann Hobbie (Elementary Teacher)
All course fees, materials, lunches, per diem and 3 graduate credits will be covered by grants from the MN Office of Higher Education Improving Teacher Quality Program, The Bush Foundation and the National Science Foundation.
To apply, fill out an electronic application (www.teachercourses.umn.edu) or contact Karen Oberhauser. All participants must apply for admission to the course. Applications due April 15, 2007.