The Earth Systems and Changes project brings together K-5 Elementary teachers from Southeast Washington to experience field observation learning at the Mid-Columbia Bones Research Center and to understand Earth systems, changes, climate science in the context  of natural and human impacts on Earth with the ESD 123 Regional Science Coordinator. 

 K-5,special education and migrant education teachers will experience grade level immersion experiences and have the opportunity to observe the effects of catastrophic natural events on organisms from long ago.  Teachers will develop, implement and analyze student formative classroom tasks for students that connect to units they teach.   They will develop an understanding of authentic phenomena/problem based STEM knowledge and skills while increasing their confidence to engage in integrated science, technology, engineering and mathematics in  real-world contexts.  

Earth Systems and Changes Focus: 

• Acquiring a deep understanding of WSSLS (NGSS) related to earth science, climate science and human impact.
• Experiencing an immersion into authentic integrated STEM problems as a learner
• Deepening understanding of how STEM professionals work in the environment of a research center and career connections for students.
• Deepening content knowledge around local earth systems and human impacts problems and phenomena.
• Developing student field opportunities, experiences and lesson enhancements around ecosystems and human impact
• Gaining confidence for engaging students in authentic place-based phenomena and problem learning experiences.

Substitute reimbursement for attending teachers

 24-30 clock hours

 Eligible for STEM Clock Hours

 Possible bonus day Ice Age Floods Tour with Gary Kleinknecht