 Visit theJohn A. Kriekard HOSC Web site
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.
Most of all, it is essential that a student’s learning
of science include experiences in scientific inquiry.
"The
(Hands On Science) center will be supported by The
Foundation for Public Education Supporting PVUSD" |
The
Paradise Valley Unified School District recognizes these
challenges and is opening a Hands
On Science center to provide support and
focus on inquiry-centered science instruction in grades
K-8. The center will be supported by The Foundation
for Public Education Supporting PVUSD.
The Hands On Science center will
provide “kit-based” science materials that are
ready to use when they arrive at the schools. The process
is much like checking out a library book. Teachers
will request which science kit they want within a defined
time period. The kit will be delivered ready for instruction
and picked up after the teacher is finished teaching the
investigations. Staff members, whose salaries will be paid
by The Foundation for Public Education, will replenish the
kits so they will be ready to be delivered to another classroom..
The
full-service facility will provide 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. The
FOSS, STC, and SEPUP kit programs consist of two instructional
kits per grade. 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.
Paradise Valley administrators and teachers are proud of
the strong focus on science instruction and professional
development in order to provide exemplary science instruction
programs. New curriculum resources, including technology,
have been integrated to assure that all students have equitable
opportunities to experience and learn science. The Hands
On Science center will
provide a solution to managing materials so teachers can
manage the learning environment.
For more information on the Hands
On Science center, call (602)
449-2088.
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