This proposal provides for the enhancement of 42 teachers (21 selected each year) of grades 6-12. The project provides for 14 teacher teams composed of one secondary science teacher and two middle school teachers to study the applications of basic science (theories and concepts) in selected industries and societal agencies for translation through teacher generated modules into high school and middle school classrooms. Two senior scientists, a Professor of Biology and a Professor of Chemistry are paired experienced science teachers and a teacher educator for two, three-week summer developmental workshops and academic year seminars. The teachers will translate the curriculum generated in the summer curriculum development activities into clinics for high school and middle school teachers in their school districts during the school year. Science teaching skills will be enhanced through: (1) vertically integrated science teams in the school system; (2) building teacher-generated curriculum by modifying outdated curriculum materials; and (3) implementation of greater attention to basic science in the middle grades prior to high school. Some of the concepts and themes included in the workshops are DNA, enzymes, marine biology, energy, water cycle and quality, and the relationship of chemistry to our environment and daily lives. Cost sharing is equivalent to 45% of the NSF award.
