SCIENCE

Science Minor

The science minor is an appropriate choice for elementary education majors, who need exposure to a broad spectrum of science courses.

The minor consists of 20 hours from:
Biology 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 204, 205, 206; Chemistry 100, 101, 102, 103, 104; Geology 101; Physics 101, 121, 122.

Science 280 is designed to meet the state of Illinois elementary education standards for elementary education majors. Students interested in the teaching sciences should consider either secondary biology education or secondary chemistry education, because the state of Illinois no longer offers certification in general science education.

100 NAT. SCI. CREDIT (3)

280 SCIENCE CONCEPTS & METHODS (3)

FALL/SPRING

This course covers the characteristics of science, goals for elementary science education, an inquiry approach to science teaching, and resources for science teachers. Topics include conducting laboratory experiments; laboratory safety; data collection and analysis; care of plants and animals in the classroom; instrumentation; technology and society; sources of information and materials; professional organizations; planning and teaching science courses, units, and lessons; and assessing learning outcomes. Emphasis is placed on inquiry and ways to address the needs of a diversity of students. Prerequisites: 9 hours of college science courses, including biological, physical, and earth science.

380 TEACHING SCIENCE GRADES 6-12 (3)

FALL-EVEN

This course focuses on the teaching methods and the characteristics of science from a Christian worldview. This course will cover teaching methods pertaining to biology, chemistry, and physics, with the primary focus on biology and chemistry methods. This course will be based on inquiry, with lecture, discussion, reflection, laboratory, and presentation components. Students will become familiar with standards for secondary science, will use technology in the classroom and laboratory, will design and conduct experiments, and will plan and teach classroom and laboratory lessons. Students will become acquainted with source materials, laboratory safety practices and good laboratory management. Prerequisites: Education 203 and completed course work or concurrent enrollment in biology, chemistry and physics.