EDUR 5031 Introduction to Approaches to Teaching Science and Literacy

2 semester hours

This one semester course introduces candidates to teaching secondary science using an inquiry approach by integrating the three dimensions: Science and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas (NRC, 2012) with literacy, in an effort to meet the performance expectations outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards (NRC, 2013). The emphasis of the course is “how” to teach science; methods for long and short range planning, unit plan design, and creation of authentic assessments are woven together to support teachers in creating effective learning environments for all learners. This course embeds inclusive approaches to engage all students through the use of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines, and teaches candidates how to organize learning to connect to student culture, prior knowledge, interests, goals, and diverse learning needs. This course requires active participation both in-class and online through activities, assignments, discussions, and fieldwork. Candidates will also be expected to be able to plan for effective subject matter instruction and use multiple means of representing, expressing, and engaging students. Through on-line course experiences, candidates will model and develop digital literacy for instruction.