The Challenge

The United States is facing many challenges in providing quality science programs for today's students.  In order to compete in today's world, students need to investigate, model, discuss and understand sophisticated science concepts.  It is essential that a student's learning of science include experiences in scientific inquiry.

In addition, beginning in the spring of 2008, students in grades 4, 8 and high school Biology completed the first AIMS (Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards) Science test.  In future years, it is expected that this test will become part of the annual AIMS testing program and part of the equation for schools to make Adequate Yearly Progress. (AYP)

The Solution

The Foundation for Public Education (TFPE) is proud to support the “Hands on Science” Center for the Paradise Valley Unified School District. Throughout the year, The Foundation worked tirelessly to raise the funds necessary to open the doors of the new Hands On Science Center. During the summer of 2008, the HOSC staff members, the science curriculum specialist and others purchased the supplies, stocked the shelves and assembled over 860 science kits that were ready to go for the 2008-09 school year.

What is the Hands On Science Center?

The Hands On Science Center is a full-service facility that organizes and distributes hands-on materials to teachers in grades K-8. The 5000 sq. ft. Center provides science materials, kits and laboratory supplies to facilitate inquiry-based instruction embedded in a variety of standards-based content. Two employees will refurbish, inventory and redistribute the kits on a rotational basis. Teachers, after completing the kit-specific training, will be able to request kits that will come fully stocked and ready to be taught.

The programs consist of two instructional kits per grade. The kits, which enhance the classroom programs, are from the leading-edge educational science curriculum programs —FOSS, STC, and SEPUP. The instructional time averages eight weeks per kit. The kits include a Teacher's Guide, 32 student texts, video support for the teacher, and materials for hands-on activities by all students. 

The Board of the National Science Foundation recommends the science materials distributed by the Center. These programs integrate reading (non-fiction), writing and math. Research has shown that test scores improve in all areas as a result of using this integrated approach to science instruction.  English Second Language Learners are supported through the use of Word Walls and experiential learning. Materials are adaptable for the gifted.  Homework pages are included. Parents can go to www.fossweb.com to find meaningful home activities. 
Instruction emphasizes:

1. What's the big idea (concept)?
2. What should students be doing during instruction?
3. What are those embedded assessments? (Formative)
4. How do I know they really got it? (Summative)

The FOSS materials will also meet the criteria of the six Arizona Science Standard Strands:

1. Science as Inquiry
2. History and Nature of Science
3. Science and Social Perspectives and Technology
4. Life Sciences
5. Physical Sciences
6. Earth Sciences

The John A. Kriekard Hands On
Science Center
is located at the Distribution Center
3012 E. Greenway Rd.
Phoenix, AZ  85032  

Contact:
Linda Coyle
Curriculum Dept.
(602) 449-2100
lcoyle@pvschools.net

The John A. Kriekard
Hands On Science Center
is presented by The Foundation for Public Education in partnership with PVUSD
www.tfpe.org