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1. Introduction Patricia G. Bernhardt
M.A. Curriculum Development 1988, California State University Sacramento
B.A. Biology 1979, University of Maine
Currently Teaching 7th Grade Life Science at the James F. Doughty Middle School in Bangor Maine (14 years, go Bulldogs)
3. RET Content The RET experience provided me with knowledge about current research regarding sensors
The experience has allowed me to discuss sensors with students
Maine Learning Technology Initiative provides a laptop to each 7th and 8th grader in Maine
4. Experiment Changes in levels of Gluathione S- Transferace
Cyanobacteria & LPS
Heavy metal exposure
GST part of metabolic pathway
Measure change in absorption
5. Outcomes Established a linear relationship for GST levels and cyanobacterial toxins in zebra fish embryos
Set the ground work for future research conducted at MDI Biological Laboratories
Results to be used in future funding grants/Publications
Program reinvigorated my love of science and taught me up to date lab techniques to bring into my classroom
6. Middle School Implications due to RET Program Scientists teaching science (highly qualified)
Bangor is 1 out 4 middle schools in Maine
Exposing all/most students to sensor research
Demystifying science & eliminating barriers
Early and consistent exposure to science
7. Life Science Projects Completed
Effect of pH on bacterial growth
Sensors in our home
Satellite images and red tide
Future Projects
pH and algal blooms
Effects of fertilizers
Human Body as sensor
8. On to Bangor H.S. Programs in place
Geography
Social Studies
Chemistry
Math
Science (Biological/Marine)
Sensor course (Godsoe & French)
Middle school successes will lead to increased interest and confidence
Is BHS going to require 4 years of science?
9. Partnership with GK-12 As part of the RET experience, each teacher was matched with a GK-12 Fellow
A graduate student who is sponsored by NSF to promote mutually beneficially partnerships between institutions of higher educations and local school districts (thanks Eeva Hedefine)
Goals
Promotes interest in science and mathematics
Expose teachers to cutting edge research
Provide a bridge between research and real life applications
10. Conclusions Three Programs provide synergistic impact (RET, GK-12, and Laptop initiative) in bringing science literacy to my 7th grade students
I would like to thank the National Science Foundation, Prof. John Vetelino, Prof. Greg Mayer, and Eeva Hedefine