Tyler Wedemeier, Sara Peterson, Denise Cook, Stacy Knight When it comes to science, the 4th grade team has a wealth of experience all at different levels. A common question they had was, "What does 4th grade science look like?" Sara Peterson had that question in her mind this summer when she ran into Birgitta Meade (former North Winn science teacher, Luther Adjunct Professor, NBC Teacher, Winneshiek County Conservation Education Liaison).
“I ran into Birgitta at a potluck and as we talked about my new fourth grade position and my nervous excitement about 4th grade curriculum, she asked how she could help. I told her that I was unsure about teaching the unit on energy, “ commented Sara. “One month later Birgitta called me with a plan.” What started out as a single class participating, quickly turned in to the whole 4th grade jumping on board. Birgitta was able to take the 4th grade "Energy" standards and bundle them into seven lessons which she taught to each class. "Birgitta is a true master of science instruction. I have had the pleasure to learn from her as a Luther student, observe her teach at North Winn, and collaborate with her in her new role with the Winneshiek County Conservation. Her knowledge of the standards and student engagement is inspiring," said Tyler Wedemeier, Student Centered Instructional Coach. During the unit, students and teachers were engaged in a science routine of hands-on activities and group discussion. "The students in the my class enjoyed having the hands on tools and the multipurpose room to use when making their own turbine designs. Some were very surprised at the results," said 4th grade teacher, Stacy Knight. "It was so refreshing to watch Ms. Meade teach and share her knowledge about electricity with the 4th graders. My students were so excited to see her each session, and her precise directions and enthusiasm encouraged my students to 'dive' into the trial and error investigations. In a true pinnacle of the unit, 4th grade students were able to get a guided tour of Luther College's wind turbine from Emily Neal, Assistant Director of the Center for Sustainable Communities. On the last day of the unit, Ms. Meade was showered with cards, hugs, and accolades. Each and every card reading, "Thank you! Science is the best!" If you are interested in working with Winneshiek County Conservation, email: [email protected]
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AuthorsDCSD Teachers, Instructional Coaches, Learner Advocate, and Collaborative Teachers Archives
April 2024
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