Learn how to best prepare students for the ACT Aspire Science Assessment while teaching the Arkansas K-12 Science Standards in a changing digital world. In this blended session, participants dive into the ACT Aspire Science Assessment and its connections to Arkansas Academic Standards in science, mathematics, and ELA by engaging in a series of virtual lessons. Science specialists support participants remotely as they work through digitally-adapted lessons. The exemplar lessons demonstrate how to engage students in analyzing data, examining cause and effect, reading to gather information, and applying reasoning to develop arguments based on evidence. Strategic use of formative assessment is modeled to assist teachers in developing these essential teaching skills. Various online tools are utilized including Google Classroom, Google Meet, and PearDeck. Participants will need to have access to a device with internet capabilities and a google account. Participants must participate in online discussions, complete assignments, and provide evidence of application of tools/skills taught in this session. Participants must also view the DESE Science Professional Learning Prerequisite Video Summer 2020 that highlights DESE mission and vision, High Leverage Practices (HLPs), and G.U.I.D.E for Life prior to the virtual session.
Each session is designed for 6-16 participants. These professional learning sessions include 3 hours of self-paced independent work time and 8 hours over multiple days in face-to-face sessions facilitated by Coop and DESE science specialists. In addition, a self-paced viewing of a 1 hour DESE video covering the foundational principles to be addressed more deeply in the professional learning sessions is required.