9553426 Hammerich The proposed project is designed to increase interest in science, engineering and mathematics (SEM) among 60 fourth-grade, African American, Asian, and Hispanic females and to enhance the science and mathematics curriculum at two Philadelphia elementary schools. This project brings together female elementary students, women who are retired from careers in SEM, and female undergraduate science education and math education students to engage in intensive experimental environmental projects. This multi-generational approach enables elementary school girls to investigate and explore urban environmental issues on a scientific level utilizing mathematical concepts. Through their involvement with retired scientists, engineers and educators, as well as undergraduate students aspiring to be science and math educators, the project introduces fourth-grade girls to career opportunities in SEM and effectively expands their interest, enthusiasm, and concepts of math and science. The proposed project represents a collaborative effort between Temple University, the School District of Philadelphia, and area chemical companies. Participants are drawn from: (a) fourth- grade students and teachers at Childs Elementary and Dunbar Schools; (b) retirees from area chemical companies (including ARCO Chemical Company), the School District of Philadelphia and Temple University; and (c) science and math education students of the College of Education at Temple University. The project is designed as an intensive intervention at two targeted elementary schools, to demonstrate the effectiveness of a multi-generational approach to enhancing the science and mathematics curriculum at the elementary level. This model project can be replicated in other school districts. The project activities include three components: classroom activities; after-school activities; summer program--City Rivers Exploration. The project is to be coordinated by The College of Education at Temple Uni versity. ***
