K-5 Science Newsletter
FEBRUARY 2017
Office of Teaching and Learning 614-365-5727
Leslie Kelly, Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction
Heather Allen, K-5 Science Coordinator
Christine Weatherholtz, K-5 Science/Social Studies Coodinator
Professional Development Opportunities
Sign up on CiMS
Gizmos, 5th-8th grade only:
The district has purchased Gizmos for 5th-8th grade science. Gizmos are interactive science simulations that use an inquiry-based learning approach. Please come check out this new engaging resource to help your students understand difficult science concepts and prepare for the state test. New training dates will be added soon.
There are 2 types of training:
Beginners- How to use Gizmos resources and tools to adapt lessons to meet standards
Advanced- Learn to use Gizmos simulations in classroom discussions, for whole and small group, and develop customized 5E lessons
Get the most out of your Gizmos by attending both sessions!
February 7, 2017 4:30-6:30 PM ADVANCED
Linmoor Educational Center, 2001 Hamilton Ave., Columbus, OH 43211
Edcite Training:
February 21, 2017 4:30-6:00 PM
Cedarwood Elementary 775 Bartfield Dr., Columbus, OH 43207
This training is for any content area teacher looking for online practice for their students. Edcite is a website with a large bank of questions for science, social studies, math, and reading.
Integrating Reading, Social Studies and Science - Grades 3-5:
February 23, 2017 4:30-6:30 PM
Lindbergh Elementary, 2541 Lindbergh Dr., Columbus, OH 43223
This professional learning opportunity will focus on integrating reading, social studies, and science. The session will incorporate time to investigate grade level materials included in the new reading series, as well as, other supplemental material that support both social studies and science integration. Participants will receive a set of small group reading materials for social studies.
Google Training
Learn about your Google Drive or Google Classroom (not content specific)
Training can be scheduled specifically for your building or grade level from 4-5pm.
INFOhio Training
Learn about the free resources for teachers, students, and families for multiple subjects.
Google or INFOhio training can be scheduled specifically for your building or grade level from 4-5pm. Email Heather Allen, hallen704@columbus.k12.oh.us or Christine Weatherholtz, cweatherholtz3151@columbus.k12.oh.us to set a date.
2017 Conservation Poster Contest
2017 Conservation Poster Contest February, 27—March 24, 2017
SAVE THE DATE for Get ConnectED!!!
MARCH 4, 2017 from 9am-12pm
@ Columbus Spanish Immersion Academy
We are now seeking presenters!
There are three types of presentations:
- Demo Slam: 2-3 minute presentation/$25 stipend
- Table Talk: 15 minute presentation/$50 stipend
- Mini-Session: 45 minute presentation/$125 stipend
ALL PRESENTATIONS MUST FOCUS ON THE UTILIZATION OF TECHNOLOGY.
Click this link to submit a proposal
Check out the video below to learn more about Get ConnectED
Important February dates
February is Black History Month
Black History month biographies: movers and shakers, figures in science and technology, people in the news, writers, entertainers, athletes, religious figures
Scholastic Famous African American Inventors with teacher guides
Weather lore says that the groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, emerges from its burrow to look for its shadow on this day after a long winter sleep. If it fails to see its shadow due to cloudy weather and stays above ground, this is an omen that winter will soon end. If, however, it is sunny and the groundhog does see its shadow, it will retreat into its burrow. This is a sign of six more weeks of bad weather. Groundhog Day is a great time to discuss the concept of hibernation.
Roses smell sweet, but we all know they have thorns. Valentine's Day is the perfect time to teach your young learners about defense systems used by plants. Ask why roses have thorns and see if anyone can suggest other plants with defense systems.
The national symbol of the United States is the American Bald Eagle. Ask your students to suggest other animals that could serve as the symbol for the United States and why they think so. Older students could research the bald eagle.
Science Passages on READWORKS!!!!
If you haven't signed up for your FREE ReadWorks account what are you waiting for?
ReadWorks.org has nonfiction and literary articles along with reading comprehension and vocabulary lessons, formative assessments, and teacher guidance. Everything ReadWorks does is based on proven cognitive science research.
Here are a few articles to check out. Just type the title in the search bar.
1st & 2nd grade
Comparing Solids
Solids and Liquids
Water Takes 3 Forms
3rd grade
Light Bounces
4th grade
Electricity & Energy- circuits
Electricity & Energy- energy
Electricity & Energy- electrical safety
Electricity & Energy- light bulb
5th grade
Simple Physics of Soccer
Lights Out