Physics for the Middle Grades (June 2 July 28 @UMass)

This course is designed to meet the needs of teachers in the middle grades with a focus on the Physical Sciences content of the grades 3-5 section of the Massachusetts Frameworks for Science and Technology/ Engineering. Topics include: electricity, magnetism, light and sound, and forms of energy. During class meetings, students will engage in lab work that provides both instruction in content and models learning activities that are appropriate for the elementary classroom. Course assignments are designed to support participants development of curriculum material, incorporating the connections between content and pedagogy, which will be relevant and useful in their school setting.

Credits: Funding is provided by the Massachusetts Math and Science Partnership. There is no charge for teachers desiring PDPs. Three graduate credits are available for inservice teachers at a reduced cost of $300 plus a $45 registration fee. Preservice teachers can earn general education undergraduate credits at the same cost. There is no stipend, but course materials will be provided.

Eligibility requirement:  teachers or teacher aides in Massachusetts schools; priority given to those in high needs school districts.

Registration: http://k12s.phast.umass.edu/pvnet/mathscience.htm. (You cannot register directly through Continuing Education.)

Questions: Contact Mort Sternheim, mort@umassk12.net, 413-545-1908.

Instructors: Mort Sternheim and Chris Emery, UMass Amherst
Dates: Mondays June 2 through July 28 from 4:30pm to 8:30pm.
Location: UMass Amherst, Lederle Graduate Research Tower room 1033.