EDC 423 - Elementary Methods: Science/Social Studies

3 Contact Hours, 3 Credits
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Methods for teaching science and social studies at the elementary level. Includes standards-driven, developmentally appropriate instructional design, lesson planning, assessment, delivery, facilitation, and teaching methodologies. Also includes critical thinking, creativity, and curricular adaptations for diverse learners.

Information: Education department approval is required before enrolling in this course.

Course Learning Outcomes

Analyze Arizona’s academic standards for science and social studies.
Develop standards-based learning goals.
Plan inquiry-oriented instruction in the content areas.
Evaluate assessment strategies in the content areas.
Illustrate strategies for integrating content area instruction.
Design differentiated learning experiences in the content areas.

Outline:

Academic Standards
1. Arizona K12 Science Standards
2. Next Generation Science Standards
3. Arizona K12 Social Studies Standards
4. National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies
Learning Goals
1. Standards-based learning goals
2. Differentiated learning targets
3. Student misconceptions
4. Content area textbooks
Inquiry-Oriented Instruction
1. 5E lesson design
2. Project-Based Learning
3. Discovery stations
4. Choice boards
Assessment Strategies
1. Formative & summative assessment
2. Grading rubrics
3. Performance assessment
4. Standardized tests
Curricular Integration
1. Cross-curricular skills
2. Interdisciplinary units
3. 3Cs: Critical thinking, creativity, collaboration
Science Domains
1. Earth/space sciences
2. Life sciences
3. Physical sciences
Social Studies Domains
1. History
2. Geography
3. Civics
4. Economics