Time Schedule:
Helen A. Buttemer
BIOL 492
Seattle Campus
Basic course in the teaching of biology in the secondary school. Designed to help preservice teachers identify useful laboratory techniques, materials, and content for the teaching of pre-college biology. Special attention to current issues in biology education. Required for biology students in Teacher Certification Program.
Class description
This course meets on Wednesday evenings to review resources, tools, techniques and issues relevant to teaching middle and high school biology. The focus is on practical strategies for the classroom. Topics include: Animals in the classroom, Teaching with plants, Easy microbiology for the classroom, Models & simulations for teaching, Tools for teaching experimental design, Hard-to-teach concepts (we'll look at BSCS's new Carbon Connections), Professional development opportunities.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Mostly hands-on demonstrations and activities, some guest lectures and discussions.
Recommended preparation
Experience in middle and/or high school classrooms is preferred. Participants should have some understanding of the cognitive abilities and interests of teenage students.
Class assignments and grading
One small teaching project & presentation, 5 short essays (1-page each), and 1 field trip report.
C/NC depending on satisfactory completion of all assignments.
