In this 8-week online course, as participants read Supporting Grade 5-8 Students in Constructing Explanations in Science by Katherine L. McNeil and Joseph S. Krajcik, they will learn how to integrate scientific explanations into manageable components--claims, evidence, and reasoning. This model strongly supports the practices of the Next Generation Science Standards. Teachers will be provided with concrete examples of what this scientific inquiry practice looks like when it is successfully implemented in real classrooms. The authentic classroom application of scientific practices is a key component of this class; thus, if your curriculum over the course of the 8 weeks will not offer regular opportunities to engage in scientific practices in your classroom, we recommend that you opt to take this class at another time.
The class works in one- and two-week cycles. There is a tab at the top of the blog for each one- or two-week chunk of the class. Your facilitator will send you reminder emails throughout the course with links to the appropriate page, but you are welcome to visit these pages ahead of time and work ahead if you'd like.
How do I earn clock hours?
Participants interested in 12 clock hours must:
- Read the text(s) as assigned.
- Participate fully as outlined in each week or two-week cycle.
- Read and reply to cohort member’s posts (at least one reply each week or two-week cycle).
Do I have to meet all the deadlines?
Yes. However we understand that things happen. If you miss a deadline, please contact your facilitator.
What is the time period of this class?
January 8-March 12, 2015.
Course At-a-Glance
Weeks 1-3
- Why Scientific Explanations? An introduction to the framework
- Participants will read the assigned text, watch the assigned videos, respond to the prompts and comment on at least one other participant’s posting.
Weeks 4-7
- Scientific Explanations in Action
- Participants will read the assigned text, watch the assigned videos, and implement the strategies in a science classroom setting. Teachers will cycle through a process of developing, implementing, sharing, responding, and reflecting. During each cycle, teachers will respond to at least one other participant’s posting.
Week 8
- Next Steps: A vision for the future.
- Participants will read the assigned text, watch the assigned videos, respond to prompts and comment on at least one other participant’s posting.
Note: Clock hour credit will only be given for those who complete the course as outlined. Partial credit will not be awarded.
Posts and replies must be completed according to scheduled due dates.
Facilitators will keep an attendance/participation list.How do I post?
1. Type in your comment to the space provided. See example below.
2. Include your first and last name (or at least your last initial) followed by your district name or initials in parentheses in the Name box (see below) so we’ll know who you are and give you clock hour credit for that week.
3. In addition, provide your email address and select one of the options in the Subscribe to drop down list IF you’d like to be notified via email when someone comments on the post or replies to your comment.
4. Press Submit Comment.
Watch this little demonstration to see how it’s done.
Commenting Review from 10Tech on Vimeo.
Can I still participate if I don’t want clock hours?
Why, yes, of course you can! Even if you aren't completing the class for clock hours, we hope you will participate by reading and commenting on posts and/or someone else’s comment any time you’d like.
What if I need help with the blog?
Contact one of your district's technology TOSAs or coaches.
What if I need help with the course?
Contact your facilitator.
