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Gateways

Gateways. Facilitated by: Mr. Achenbach & Ms. Zigmont. 2014-2015. Course Structure. Graded Self-contained LA/SS/Science Team-taught Integrated STEM-based program that imbeds language arts, science, & social studies using strands of present 8 th grade curriculum.

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Gateways

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  1. Gateways Facilitated by: Mr. Achenbach & Ms. Zigmont 2014-2015

  2. Course Structure • Graded • Self-contained LA/SS/Science • Team-taught • Integrated STEM-based program that imbeds language arts, science, & social studies using strands of present 8th grade curriculum.

  3. How Does Gateways Work? • Approximately 40 incoming 8th grade students (20 boys/20 girls) will be assigned. • Math and elective periods will be taught in a small group format outside of the Gateways classroom. • Remaining class periods spent in our classroom investigating topics within the core curriculum. No separate LA, science, or social studies classes.

  4. What is “STEM” Education? • (STEM) education is: • the creative and innovative engagement of students in contextual, project- and problem-based learning, requiring the integration & application of science, technology, engineering, & mathematics knowledge and skills, to produce solutions to predictable and unpredictable real-world problems.

  5. Rationale • In 2006, we created this program to meet the need of Radnor students that possess a keen interest in the sciences of math, physics, and technology. • Curriculum prepares students for the global opportunities that exist today. Opportunities that rely heavily in the knowledge of technology and technical application. • The Gateways program focuses on showing – not telling –how engineers use technology to solve everyday problems through inquiry. • While challenging and engaging their natural curiosities, students will explore math, science, language arts, social studies, and technology in an integrated fashion. • We learn all of the same things that other 8th grade teams learn in math, science, language arts, and social studies and add Project Lead the Way’s Gateway to Technology program to enrich our experience.

  6. Current Research • Current data projections indicate that the majority of the highest paying jobs in the future will require mastery of math and science. • According to a 2012 report by the U.S. Department of Commerce, in consultation with the National Economic Council, computer and math occupations account for close to half of all STEM employment today. • There will be 2.4 million job openings for STEM workers between 2008 and 2018. That consists of 1.1 million net new STEM jobs and 1.3 million replacement positions generated by STEM workers who permanently leave the workforce. • By 2015, 1 in 3 jobs will be STEM-related. • 80% of the fastest growing occupations in the US will be dependent upon mastery of math and science knowledge and skills. • Achieve (2013) reports that more than 40% of high school graduates are not properly prepared for college-level work.

  7. Current Research • 78% of college students reported that they decided to major in a STEM field in high school or earlier. • 57% indicated that prior to college a teacher or class piqued their interest in STEM. • The number of pre-collegiate STEM educational opportunities lead to increased achievements in STEM occupations up to 20 years later. Such achievements include: • Production of STEM publications • Earning a PhD in a STEM field • Maintaining a STEM occupation • Attaining STEM tenure • Obtaining a STEM patent • Only 1 in 5 STEM college students felt K-12 education had effectively prepared them to be successful in collegiate level STEM coursework.

  8. Attributes of Gateways Curricula • Contextual project/problem based • 1/3 theory, 2/3 application • F = ma, research, design, & fabricate dragster • Highly rigorous & relevant • Addresses state and national standards across all disciplines

  9. A Historical Approach • The year will be divided into two halves where biographical studies of influential scientists will provide the framework for the core content.

  10. Leonardo DaVinci We will start the year exploring the genius of Leonardo DaVinci and the art of inquiry based learning. • Scientific Method • Italian Renaissance • Sketching & Technical Drawing • Dissection • Mutter Museum Trip • Siege Machines • Punkin’ Chunkin Trip • Green Architecture

  11. Green Architecture • In a world of reduced resources and environmental challenges, it is important to present the concept of “being green” to the next generation of designers and builders. • In this unit, students will be introduced to architectural plans, construction styles, alternative materials and processes, dimensioning, measuring and architectural sustainability.

  12. Galileo • The Nature of Matter • Early Space Exploration • Waves, Sound & Light • Planetarium Trip • Italian Renaissance We will explore the controversial Galileo and his observations of “the heavens”.

  13. Sir Isaac Newton We will explore the mathematical mind of Sir Isaac Newton. • Motion, Forces, & Energy • Rube Goldberg Devices • Franklin Institute Trip • Chemistry

  14. The Science of Technology • How has science affected technology throughout history? • To answer this question students will apply the concepts of physics, chemistry and nanotechnology to STEM activities and projects.

  15. Thomas Edison We will explore Thomas Edison and illustrate how his persistence made him famous. • Inventions & Patents • Electricity & Magnetism/Magic of Electrons • Automation & Robotics • Post Civil War American History (1880- 1930) • Stock Market Game

  16. Magic of Electrons • Through hands-on projects, students will explore the science of electricity, behavior and parts of atoms, and sensing devices. • Students will acquire knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and examine the impact of electricity on our lives.

  17. Automation & Robotics • Students will trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics, learning about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation and computer control systems. • Students will use a robust robotics platform to design, build and program a solution to solve an existing problem.

  18. Albert Einstein We will learn about the 20th century’s most famous scientist, Albert Einstein. • Post Civil War American History (1930- 1960) • Flight & Space (post Wright Bros.) • Museum of Jewish Heritage Trip to NYC

  19. Flight & Space • The rich history of aerospace comes alive through hands-on activities, research, and presentations. • Students will explore the science behind aeronautics and use your knowledge to design, build and test a variety of flying machines.

  20. Competitions Throughout the year, students will be involved in various local or national competitions that will showcase student’s inquiry, fabrication, and presentation skills. Some of these competitions could include:

  21. Gateways Comparison • How it’s the same • 2 elective periods daily • All Math Levels • Grade(s) • Weekly assignments • (i.e. current events & spelling) • Differentiation • How it’s different • Provides ability to make connections between curriculum within all classes • Opportunity to direct your own learning • More cooperative and group learning • Relevant field trips to connect what students have learned to the world outside of RMS

  22. Humanities Integration Themes of post-Civil War American history and accompanying literature are explored, as well. • Industrial Revolution: Electric Universe • Society & Mass Culture: Sci-fi Lit Circles • Depression Era: To Kill a Mockingbird • World War II/Holocaust: Holocaust lit circles, Green Glass Sea, The Wave • Cold War: Rocket Boys • Additional titles include: Leonardo’s Shadow, Galileo for Kids, FutureHype, and others selected by class

  23. With a Little Help from Our Friends • REF Grant (2007) for PLTW GTT Automation & Robotics Materials ($10,000) • SME Grant for STEPS Academy ($35,000) • Summer camp in July of 2008 and 2009 • Additional technology including laptops, MP3 players and Smart Response System for our classroom • REF Grant (2009) for GTT Flight & Space Unit ($3,000) • ACTS grant (2010) ($1,300) • REF Grant (2012) for upgrade to VEX Robotics Materials ($8,400) • REF Grant (2014) for upgrade to digital trainer boards for Magic of Electrons Unit ($1,300)

  24. Who is Compatible? • EVERYONE • Seek some independence and choice in learning • Strong interest in math and science inquiry • Enjoy working & learning in groups • Like to explore & “dig deeper” • Enjoy getting out of the classroom to explore real-world applications to the curriculum • Thrive in an environment where much of the learning is “hands-on”

  25. Will My Child Be Prepared for RHS? • Since the Gateways program is combined with a challenging academic curriculum, students are well-prepared for the most demanding high school course work, and a successful transition to 9th grade. • Data that we have collected tracking our former students’ performance at RHS has shown that they have performed as well, if not better than their non-Gateways peers. • All PLTW courses at RHS are taught at the Honors (weighted) level.

  26. What’s Next? • Discuss Gateways with your child and decide on acceptance of your child’s spot or decline the invitation. • Intention letter should be submitted to the Guidance Office NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, MAY 30th.

  27. Conclusion Yesterday: Sputnik Today: STEM “In an integrated global economy whose key components are increasingly knit together in an interdependent system of relationships will our children be able to compete.” John Glenn

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