Spirited Science

I work at an inner city Catholic school with a large immigrant and refugee population. I have been teaching science to grades 5-8 since 2002.

I believe that students learn best when they are in the cortex of their brain. Therefore, I use the Whole Brain Teaching method in conjunction with my PowerPoints. I incorporate many activities into my lessons that require student repetition, hand motions, and class chants that keep the whole class engaged. It is hard to be a passive learner in my classroom because you have to continually turn to your neighbor and tell them what you just learned with hand motions and a silly tone of voice. Then, the lesson concepts are tested and explored during group discussions, internet explorations, or hands on activities. When students are engaged and having fun, it is easier for their brains to retain what they are learning.

I received the Archbishop Raymond Burke Teacher Recognition Award in 2010.

I have B.S. in Elementary Education at the University of North Texas with a specialty in Reading and a focus in Music. After realizing how much I love teaching science, I earned a middle school science certification.