Previous Math Science Partnership Teacher Workshops

Saturday, August 22

• Performance-based Science Standards - This workshop will focus on leadership for implementing performance-based science standards for South Carolina. Specifically, participants will conduct investigations reflecting action verbs for chemistry and physical science topics for Middle school and high school physical science and chemistry. Topics to be covered include behavior of waves, simple machines, half-life, periodic trends, and heating curve graph. This workshop is directed at chemistry and physical science teachers. All MSP Lead Teachers should attend also.
  
• 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM, CofC North Campus - Room 233

• Real Time Physics Using Vernier Technology - This workshop led by Dr. Ana Oprisan in the Physics Dept. at the College, will cover accelerated motion (free falling motion and motion along the incline), air resistance, conservation of energy (energy of a tossed ball and energy in simple harmonic motion), series and parallel circuits.  Participants will learn how to develop labs and activities that explore these phenomena using Vernier sensors and data loggers.  Classroom sets of the equipment that is used in the workshop can be checked out by participants for use in their own classrooms! 
  
• 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Harbor Walk East Rm. 111 – Park in the Aquarium Garage

Saturday, August 29

• Exploring Ploonoids & Other Unknown Worlds -  In this workshop lead by Dr. Cass Runyon and Cynthia Hall, we will explore what newly discovered planets, moons and asteroids look like.  Come explore small bodies in our solar system through a variety of innovative STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) activities.  Workshop will meet in at the C of C downtown campus in room 239 School of Science and Math Bldg (SSMB), 9:00 AM -1:00 PM.

• Teaching Aquatic Ecology & Conservation Biology Around Your School - This workshop will introduce teachers to the use of case studies-based activities and labs to teach ecology & conservation biology concepts.  The workshop will begin by exploring the issue of human overpopulation and its effects on the earth's ecosystems.  We will then head into the field to explore biological and physical features of a nearby aquatic ecosystem using Vernier data loggers and sensors and aquatic sampling equipment.  Activity and lab support materials will be made available to all participants, and classroom sets of the equipment used in this workshop can be loaned out to teachers for use the classroom.  So, learn how to get your students outside doing biology in a way that connects their exploration to important conservation issues!  We will meet at the CofC downtown campus - Rm. 339 Lightsey Center at 9:00 AM. Then we will head out to a nearby aquatic environment to do some field sampling.  So dress to get a little wet and muddy (old shoes, short pants, hats), bring your own sunscreen and bug spray.  Workshop will end around 1:00 PM, so bring a snack!

Saturday, November 07

• PBL Presentations that Pop - Are you interested in having your students showcase what they have learned in your class? Have you already had students participate in the Lowcountry Regional Science and Engineering Fair, Problem Based Learning (PBL) division? Then this 1/2 day workshop is for you!  Join your colleagues in this exploration of Problem Based Learning (PBL). In this 4 hour training we will identify steps for facilitating the development of successful PBL entries for the Lowcountry Regional Science & Engineering Fair, PBL competition. We will also discover implementation strategies for PBL in the classroom, giving real and relevant context to your content, and helping engage students in meaningful inquiry.  This workshop is sponsored by the CofC's Lowcountry Hall of Science & Math and Solutions in Science, Technology & Math Education (S2TEM). Please register at S2TEM's Eventbrite. If you are teaching at one of our MSP partner schools please also sign up on the MSP Sign-Up Form. A $75.00 stipend and a book will be provided to all participants who agree to enter at least one PBL project in the Low Country Science Fair. Teachers from MSP partner schools will receive and additional $75 for attending the workshop.
• 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, CofC North Campus
  

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015

A STEAMy view of Earth; using art and science to explore the earth (Dr. Cass Runyon) - CofC North Campus Rm 244

Teachers will learn how to integrate Earth science topics with art in a hands-on workshop. Various activities (drawing, models, and design) will be completed showing different artistic approaches to learning content.

Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015

Teaching about Evolution & the Nature of Science (Dr. John Peters) - CofC North Campus – Rm 244

This workshop is intended to expose teachers to strategies for teaching about evolution and helping students develop literate understandings of the nature of science.  We will explore the use of problem and case studies (Problem and Case-based Learning) in teaching about evolution, and inquiry-based labs and hands-on-minds-on activities which support this approach.  Resources for implementing labs, problems and case studies will also be shared.
-Nature of Science Map
-Chance and Natural Selection in Evolution Activity
-Termite Trails Activity & PowerPoint
-The Grateful Whale

Leadership: Science and Math Performance Standards and Lesson Plans (Dr. William Veal) - CofC North Campus

Lead Teachers and others will explore vertical alignment of activities in science and math while relating them to performance standards and problem-solving standards. Hands-on lesson plans and activities will provide teachers with the vertical alignment among grade levels and schools and the relation to national standards.

Saturday, Feb 21, 2015

Math: Algebra I Concepts and Technology (Dr. Owens) - Cane Bay HS – Room TBD

In this workshop we will explore several projects related to a variety of algebra topics. Some of the projects will introduce teachers to the use of the Vernier data loggers in the algebra classroom. Data gathered using the Vernier devices will be analyzed using graphing calculators (specifically the TI-83+ series). We will also introduce some computer applications that can make algebra more fun, both for the teachers and the students. The math content topics we will talk about will include symbols and expressions, linear functions, and quadratic functions.

Physics: Free falling motion, inclined plane, Newton’s second law, simple machine, & conservation of energy (Dr. Oprisan)  Harbor Walk 111 (building next to the Charleston Aquarium)

We will explore free falling motion, simple machine, work and efficiency, compare work done in raising the object to the same height by lifting it and pulling it up an inclined plane. The conservation law of energy will be explored for a toss ball and motion along an incline. Newton’s second law will be verified using a motion sensor and a force probe sensor.

Saturday, March 7, 2014

Exploring the planets through art and science (Dr. Runyon) Cane Bay MS – Room TBD

Teachers will use art and art-based strategies (modeling, drawing, and designing) to learn about planets and stellar bodies. This hands-on workshop will provide pedagogical and content related information for teachers to use directly in their MS and some HS courses related to space science.

Saturday, March 14, 2015

Math: Fractions, Decimals, and Percents (Dr. Owens) - CofC North Campus Computer Lab – Rm 211

In this workshop, we will investigate different approaches to problems involving fractions, decimals, and percents. We will work through activities using both physical and virtual manipulatives. Activities will include “Introducing Fractions with Fraction Bars” and “Introducing Decimals with Base-Ten Pieces.” The math content topics we will talk about will include models of fraction arithmetic; operations with decimals; and ratio and percent problems.

Saturday, March 21, 2015

Field Trip – Exploring Dune Ecology (Dr. Peters) – Folly Beach. 

In this field-based lab we will explore the ecology of the dune ecosystem.  Specifically we will be examining dune succession and adaptations that plants have for living in different regions of the dune environment.  We will begin by “profiling” the dunes, then using Vernier sensors and data loggers to measure various physical aspects of the dune environment and then test how these factors influence biological parameters such as diversity, and productivity.  We will meet at the coast guard (north) end of Folly Beach.  Parking on FB is $8 so please car pool if possible. 

Saturday, April 18, 2015

Physics: Explore electrostatics, electric current (Ohm’s law), and electromagnetism (Dr. Oprisan) - Harbor Walk 111 (building next to Charleston Aquarium)

The basics of electrostatics will be explored using hands on activities. We will verify Ohm’s law validity as well as circuit reduction and applications. We will build an electromagnet and measure magnetic field using a magnetic field sensor.

February 22, 2014

• Mathematics - What is the Problem with Probability? Unscrambling Student Confusions - Many statistics teachers find that the units on probability are by far the most difficult to teach and the most difficult for students to learn. They are often “jammed” into just a chapter or two, with few explanations, and high expectations. Since most state mandated exams now include questions on probability, even as early as 6th grade, it is important that these units be included in an aggressive curriculum.  The use of everyday examples, often referred to as COINS, CARDS and DICE 101, sometimes do not truly help student understanding.  In this workshop teachers will be exposed to individual and group lessons that show students how to conduct probability experiments to accumulate data quickly.  Using simulations will add in the data collection process and the verification of classical probability laws and formulas. Using games taken from The Price Is Right television show is another great way to explain probability, both classical and empirical in nature. This seminar will also include exploring random number tables, binomial Events the use of TI series calculator. 

March 15, 2014

• Physics - Explore conservation of energy, Elastic and inelastic collisions, optics (reflection, refraction). The workshop will introduce teachers to using Vernier data loggers and sensors of physics and physical science lab explorations.  The equipment used in this workshop (full classroom sets) will be available for participating teachers to check out (for up to 2 weeks) for use in their own classrooms.
  
• Mathematics - Correlation & Regression Analysis has become an integral part of virtually every business in the United States and around the world. The examination of trends and the ability to make accurate predictions often lends itself to the success or failure of a company.  The statistics curriculum in our schools now reflects and emphasizes correlation and tries to explain the issues with cause-and-effect relationships and to what extent they truly exist.  This workshop is designed to provide instruction as well as to provide every day examples of analysis, the ability to construct and interpret prediction intervals and to find those, which are truly meaningful.  We will examine linear, quadratic, cubic and other relationships and how they may be used effectively. The use of residual plots and point to point analysis will also be covered. Simulations will be used to create large quantities of data, which will be used in a total regression analysis.

• Biology - One of the most important goals of science course should be to help students use and evaluate scientific knowledge to better understand real-world science related issues which confront them in their personal, professional and civic lives.  In traditional labs, the main goal is usually to learn about a scientific phenomenon, or concept.  Although scientific methods are generally used, little emphasis is placed on evaluating scientific knowledge, or the process by which that knowledge was generated.  This is because traditional science labs usually involve following a set of instructions, which guide students through a process of finding out about something, for which “an answer” or outcome is preplanned and already known.  This is more akin to following a cookbook recipe, and like a recipe, is often thought to have failed if the expected results don’t materialize.  This more “cookbook” approach to science labs does little to help students develop literate conceptions of the nature of scientific knowledge (validity, tentativeness, limitations, collaborative nature of research, and factors that influence a scientist’s choice of research topics etc…).   In this workshop we will explore ways of using Vernier data loggers, sensors and data analysis tools to develop student-directed inquiry-based labs in middle & high school biology class.  The equipment used in this workshop (full classroom sets) will be available for participating teachers to check out (for up to 2 weeks) for use in their own classrooms. 

March 29, 2014

• Physics - Exploring motion (velocity, acceleration-free falling motion, incline), Newton’s second law, Newton’s third law, air resistance.We will explore motion with constant velocity, accelerated motion along the incline and vertical motion using motion sensors. Newton’s second law and third law will be verified using motion sensors and force probe sensors. Using coffee filters and motion sensors we will measure air resistance dependence on different factors.  The workshop will introduce teachers to using Vernier data loggers and sensors of physics and physical science lab explorations.  This equipment (full classroom sets) will be available for participating teachers to use in their own classroom through our MSP equipment loan program. 

April 12, 2014

• Physics - Explore electrostatics, electric current (Ohm’s law), and electromagnetism. The basics on electrostatics will be explored using hands on activities. We will verify Ohm’s law validity as well as circuit reduction and applications. We will build an electromagnet and measure magnetic field using a magnetic field sensor.  The equipment used in this workshop (full classroom sets) will be available for participating teachers to check out (for up to 2 weeks) for use in their own classrooms. 

April 26, 2014

• Biology - Case It!  This workshop will explore the use of case-studies based lab explorations in biology.  This workshop will specifically explore concepts related to genetics and molecular biology in the context of a case study involving a child custody dispute among several families whose children may have been accidentally switched in the hospital after birth.  The lab will introduce teachers to using modern molecular techniques, and the equipment used in the lab (full classroom sets) will be available for participating teachers to check out (for up to 2 weeks) for use in their own classrooms.

May 17, 2014

• Mathematics - Applications & Technology Across the Mathematics Curriculum.  We will explore several emerging technologies that can be used in the mathematics classroom. We will develop practical classroom presentations of various applications, and integrate computer and graphing calculator activities into these classroom modules. While exploring topics from algebra, personal finance, geometry, precalculus, and calculus, we will use several web-based applications, including Geogebra, Wolfram|Alpha, and Desmos. We will also look at some applications using the TI-series calculator.

August 16, 2014 (also Friday Aug. 15 for CCSD teachers)

• All Science Teachers - 2014 Performance-based Science Standards – The newly adopted SC Science Standards are performance-based. This workshop will introduce grade 4-12 educators with a comprehensive review of the standards, define what performance-based instruction means, and how different instructional methods can be used to teach content-specific, performance-based standards using some Vernier handheld devices and probe technology. The following science concepts will be covered: habitats and transfer of energy. Dr. William Veal, Workshop will be held at Cane Bay High School. 

• Dr. Veal will also be offering this workshop for teachers in Charleston County School District on Friday, Aug. 15, 8:30 - 11:30 AM at Ft. Johnson Middle School.

• Mathematics - Applications & Technology Across the Mathematics Curriculum.  We will explore several emerging technologies that can be used in the mathematics classroom. We will develop practical classroom presentations of various applications, and integrate computer and graphing calculator activities into these classroom modules. While exploring topics from algebra, personal finance, geometry, precalculus, and calculus, we will use several web-based applications, including Geogebra, Wolfram|Alpha, and Desmos. We will also look at some applications using the TI-series calculator.  Instructor - Kate Owens, Ph.D.  Math Professor at the College of Charleston. Workshop will be held at in Room 211 at the NEW CofC North Campus.

• Open to all science teachers - A Walk in the Francis Marion Forest – Come join us for a morning walk through a Long Leaf Pine ecosystem in Francis Marion National Forest.  Learn about the unique ecology of this ever vanishing ecosystem, the organisms that live here, the life-sustaining ecological services they provide to all species, including our own, and the historical influences humans have had on the forest.  The workshop will be taught using case-based learning strategies and will offer ideas for developing inquiry-based outdoor labs using many of the Vernier data loggers and sensors available for teachers to check out and use in their classrooms as part of the MSP project.   Bring your cameras, binoculars, bug spray, and boots (the trail will be wet), and join us for a field trip that will help you to help your students better understand their connections to the ecology of this fascinating forest.  Any and all science or math teachers are welcome!  Instructor - John Peters, Ph.D., CofC Biology Instructor.  Meet at the Sewee Visitor Center of Hwy 17 North of Mt. Pleasant.

• Physics:  The latest Vernier technologies, such as interfaces, force probes, motion sensors, light, and graphing/analysis software will be used to collect data and verify fundamental physics concepts.  Background information about the physics and math at play in each experimental situation will be given to the educators as well as basic working procedure and hints. The following physics concepts will be covered: Newton’s second law; Frictional force; Momentum, energy; Reflectivity of light; Electromagnets. Instructors - Ana Oprisan, Ph.D. CofC Physics Professor & William Veal, CofC Dept. of Teacher Education.  Workshop will be held in Room 111 Harbor Walk West near the South Carolina Aquarium.  please park in the Aquarium Garage.

Saturday, August 30, 2014

• Applying Technology in Science & Mathematics - Would you like your classroom to be more engaging? Have you been hoping to integrate additional educational technologies in your classroom? This session will emphasize technology tools that will help you create a more engaging, active learning environment. We will explore tools that can be used for content delivery, polling, gaming, and group work. We will also review best practices for practical implementation of the tools.  The instructor, Dr. Kaitlin Woodlief works as an instructional technologist in the Teaching, Learning, and Technology Department at College of Charleston. She also teaches as an adjunct professor for the Department of Biology, Kaitlin completed her PhD in genetics and genomics and certificate in teaching at Duke in 2012. Kaitlin loves melding her two positions at College of Charleston - a technologist and instructor - by frequently exploring and testing out new technologies and teaching strategies in her classroom.  Workshop will meet at the NEW CofC North Campus, Rm. 222.

• Physics -  Real time physics using Vernier technology - The latest Vernier technologies, such as interfaces, force probes, motion sensors and graphing/analysis software will be used to collect data and verify fundamental physics concepts. Vernier technology is innovative and interesting, easy to use and simple enough to be understood by students in both middle and secondary grades. Background information about the physics and math at play in each experimental situation will be given to the educators as well as basic working procedure and hints. The following physics concepts will be covered: position, velocity, acceleration, air resistance, Newton’s third law.  Instructors - Ana Oprisan, Ph.D. CofC Physics Professor & William Veal, CofC Dept. of Teacher Education.  Workshop will be held in Room 111 Harbor Walk West near the South Carolina Aquarium.  please park in the Aquarium Garage.

• Mathematics: An Inquiry-Based Approach to Topics in Algebra - This workshop is designed for middle-level and secondary mathematics teachers. Using an inquiry-based approach, we will explore different algebraic topics and engage in collaborative problem solving. We will cover a variety of topics across the algebra content strands and we will also make use of the Vernier data pro loggers, focusing on how they can be used to introduce students to new algebraic ideas.  Topics may include: patterns, sequences, and series; divisibility of integers including tests for divisibility; sets and Venn diagrams; variables, functions, and equations.  Cane Bay High School - Rm. TBA