Contents
Comments & Suggestions
Vernier/TI Calculators & Tools
Science Curriculum
Physics
Biology
Chemistry
Math Curriculum
Integrated Math Curriculums
COMAP
Math Connections
CMP
ALEKS Procedural Math Support
Assessment
STAR Targets
Alternative Assessments
Pass Rates: Math & Science
ACT EPAS
_______________________________________________________________
Project-based and integrated curriculums are problematic in public schools. Standardized, multiple-choice test scores do not improve; although real learning for life, profession, and work are enhanced by project-based learning. We must find a way to make STAR results acceptable.
The school must be judged on math & science class pass rates (Failure is not an option.), STAR Summative Math (3rd year math), STAR Biology, and ACT scores compared to students in Colorado, Michigan and Illinois. Physics STAR scores should be compared to San Diego's experience, not to Seniors taking AP Physics courses.
The ACT Explore test ($7 per student) should be given to each incoming ninth grader. A decision on implementing the ACT EPAS program can be delayed.
After reviewing the webpages on Active Physics, Active Chemistry, and Math Connections, it may be wise to negotiate with Its About Time. Without question, their representative Robert Davies should be debriefed about the San Diego and Los Angeles results (He is extremely knowledgeable and forthright.) The alternative curriculum is Physics: A First Course, World of Chemistry, and CPM.
Determine a Biology science budget using Bio-Rad's Explorer Program. Consider Biology as the focus of the school's science program.
If Active Physics is inappropriate, follow the board-approvedPhysics: A First Course text and experiment program. It fits the project focus at the lowest cost.
If Active Chemistry is not employed, follow the board-approved World of Chemistry text. Students must pass Chemistry.
Integrated math should cover three years, not two. A separate Algebra 2 course should not be offered. Math Connections or CPM offers the greatest chance of students passing. COMAP offers the best math program from a project basis because of its focus on models, but its difficulty may preclude 100% success. CPM follows a more conventional A1-G-A2 curriculum.
In conclusion, two sequences (excluding Biology) appear appropriate for EC: Physics: A First Course, World of Chemistry, and CMP form a solid EC core or Active Physics, Active Chemistry, and Math Connections.
Samples of these programs will be available in SIMC.
_______________________________________________________________
To prevent the continual reinvention of how to conduct experiments and how to use a graphing calculator, use Vernier sensors / TI graphing calculators or possibly Pasco (primarily Physics oriented) /TI in all science and math classes. Student will maintain their skills, instead of letting them atrophy which occurs when using tools only occasionally or different ones each year. This will also help students on the SAT/ACT.
