Middle School Science Minute

by Dave Bydlowski (k12science or [email protected])

It runs a little longer (2 minutes--but hey, I took off my watch and found I had all the time in the world). It is about the announcement of the new Science Framework that was released last week. From the framework will come the new science standards (late 2012). This will probably become the common core for science, just like ELA and Math--thus the National Curriculum in Science. So, it is a good heads up for people. If you want to mention it in the show notes, the audience can download the full 320 page report for free at:

http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13165

News:

Beyond Seat Time: Advancing Proficiency-Based Learning

Can we do without the traditional school year? Is it feasible to shift to a system of student advancement based solely on proficiency? iNacol's Susan Patrick shares her vision of what such a system would look like and what it will take to get there. (Hint: It's already underway in some states.)

http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/08/10/beyond-seat-time-advancing-proficiency-based-learning.aspx

NMSA becomes AMLE: Watch for the change during the months of August and September.

Jeff LaRoux wins NMSA/AMLE election!

Congrats!

Resources:

U.S. Debt clock

http://usdebtclock.org/

Ten ideas for interactive teaching

By Jenna Zwang, Assistant Editor

http://www.eschoolnews.com/2011/06/06/ten-ideas-for-interactive-teaching/?ast=42&astc=3032

http://www.fctl.ucf.edu/TeachingAndLearningResources/CourseDesign/Assessment/content/101_Tips.pdf

Web Spotlight:

Teenage Girls And Social Media: Tips For Parents From A Best-Selling Author

Nearly 10 years ago, author Rachel Simmons wrote a best-selling book called Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls. Now she has updated her book to include the role of social media and technology.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/alltechconsidered/2011/08/09/139176817/teenage-girls-and-social-media-tips-for-parents-from-a-best-selling-author?ft=1&f=1019

ISTE 2011: Professional Development led by Liz Davis

Students did a screen cast for each of the Google products. Checkout Flipboard for the iPad.

On Our Mind:

Starting of the school year.

Eileen Award:

Linda Chapman Broderic

Dave T.

Debbie T.

Advisory:

http://usdebtclock.org/

From the Twitterverse:

Don’t forget to join the conversation on MiddleTalk and Twitter at #midleved this Friday at 8:00 pm EST.

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