Feed Your Brain - With Science

I've been teaching middle school physical science since 2004. In our class, we cover the basic concepts of physics and chemistry. These concepts are great baseline or refresher information for high school physical science, chemistry, and physics.

I implement a wide variety of styles into my lessons, ranging from direct instruction to hands-on labs. I believe that allowing students to experience the science in different ways allows them to better learn the material. <p> While the rigor in the classroom is high, I include as much humor and life connections as I can, which greatly increases student engagement. </p>

Really, the greatest honor I receive from my profession is getting the students to push themselves through the "I don't get it" stage, to the point where their face lights up, they say (usually shout) "I get it now!", and they're up, helping other kids figure it out.

BS - Oregon State University - General Science<br /> MS - Oregon State University - Science Education<p> I currently hold 48 graduate credits beyond my master's degree, focusing mostly on classroom and time management. 5th-12th Grade Integrated Science Endorsement<br /> Mid-Level Multiple Subject Endorsement<br /></p>

In addition to teaching, and spending time with my family, I enjoy mountain biking, running, and working with computers. <p> From high school graduation, until I got married (ten years), I worked during my summers as an engine operator, and squad boss for the US Forest Service, fighting wildfires throughout the Western U.S. My days of doing that are over now, but I have molded that love for fire into a fun elective class, where I teach my students the basics of wildland firefighting.</p>