AstronomyDad

33 years as a science educator. Developed curricula for astronomy, physics, chemistry and the earth sciences for many years. Conducted technology in-services for staff and training seminars for use of new technology in the classroom.

Teach all ability levels in science from grades 6-12. Lessons are reflective of interactive learning & student inquiry in the classroom. Astronomy is a very visual science so I try to incorporate that into the lessons & reviews whenever possible. Math is kept at a reasonable minimum - but there are expectations of having at least a first-year algebra level of math (Kepler and Newton's Laws as well as Einstein's theory of Special Relativity etc.) "Hands-on labs" are few due to the nature of the subject - however Internet activities/labs have proven to be an effective substitute. Power Point lessons include many graphics; some animations and several short video links. An optional kahoot.it interactive 20-question quiz/review is incorporated as a link in the last PowerPoint slide in all PPT lessons. I have found that online kahoot.it and Quizziz programs to be a very effective and fun way to gauge student understanding of the subjects. Students will have a note guide to follow along with the PowerPoint lessons as well. Lessons are set up as a framework in which students can ask questions, and class discussions are highly encouraged. Most lessons are listed as 30 minutes but will vary depending on the amount of student interactions and (optional) links to the short videos (and kahoot.it quizzes) that can be shown. ActivInspire programs are used for review of a lesson or a unit covered and also include many graphics (the answers are sometimes in the graphics or gives a "hint"). The instant feedback and student discussions that are associated with this style of review is unmatched. There are many ways to conduct an ActivInspire review - I will usually have students work in pairs or in teams to see who can score the most points or answer the most questions correctly. I strive to make it fun; informative & interactive for students at all levels. The greatest gift as a teacher is imparting a sense of wonder of what the Universe is about. When students graduate and return to tell you how your class was a such a positive experience - well - words can't fully explain the moment. I guess it does mean that you are making a difference!

(a few honors/awards but not into self-congratulations)

BS Astronomy/Geology; BS Earth Science Ed; M.Ed Science

Happy father of three boys who tolerate Dad lecturing about the world around us.