Date: April 14, 2008 1 - 4pm

Location: LAPDA Meeting Space, Montpelier

Cost: $100 for members, $125 for non-members

Registration: http://www.lapdavt.org

Call (802) 224-9110 for more information

Quality science instruction is a complex endeavor that requires an understanding of science content, the skillful use of questioning, and the ability to facilitate student inquiry. A learning culture that nurtures scientific dispositions as well as a physical environment that supports collaborative work are essential components of an effective science class. Within this vision of science education, instructional decisions by teachers are based upon data gathered from both formative and summative assessments.

So... what does this look like in practice? What would you expect to see and hear in the classroom? We will provide a framework for classroom observations and introduce a model for effective science instruction in order to help participants make informed observations in the science classroom.

About the Presenters

Pat Fitzsimmons is currently the Elementary Science Assessment Coordinator at the Vermont Department of Education. She is responsible for promoting a shared vision of quality science instruction, collaborating with Teacher Leaders to develop Science Network meetings, and overseeing the development of NECAP Science. Previously, Pat taught kindergarten in Vermont for fourteen years and then worked as a Science Curriculum Specialist in her district. Pat recently received her Master’s Degree in Science Education from Lesley University and was honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching in 1996.

Renee Affolter has worked for the Vermont Science Initiative since 2003 as a mentor to teachers throughout the state. She has been able to apply her Masters in Science Education from UC Berkeley and her high school and middle school teaching experience to helping teachers improve science instruction in their classrooms. Renee is also responsible for teaching Best Practice in Science Education, Action Research, and Science Assessment courses for VSI. Most recently, Renee worked as a facilitator for Burlington’s district wide professional development in science and is providing training at Union Elementary School in Montpelier.