9353447 Hosoume This project, sponsored by the University of California-Berkeley (Lawrence Hall of Science), will develop, conduct and disseminate a science and mathematics content and methods institute for preschool and kindergarten teachers in the San Francisco Bay area and the nation as well. The curriculum is based upon the PEACHES and GEMS materials. Project activities include: introduction to science and mathematical concepts through the life and physical sciences; participation in hands-on sciecne and mathematics experiences integrated with language arts; introduction to appropriate instructional strategies for young children; participation in early childhood professional conferences in the area of science and mathematics and presentation of orientation sessions on project curriculum by participants to teachers and parents at their schools. The project will develop and conduct 3 summer institutes, each three weeks in length and each enrolling 40 pre-school and kindergarten teachers. In addition two academic year sessions will be conducted each year for project participants to carry out dissemination to the schools. Fifty parents, administrators and teachers from participants' schools will be involved in one academic session each year at the Lawrence Hall of Science. The Handbook for Early Childhood Science and Math Explorations for teachers and parents will be revised and published by year four of the project.
