The lesson plan that is proposed for presentation here was created as part of a larger, kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) outreach program. A unique feature of this program is the inclusion of all grade-levels, K-12, within a given district. Additionally, this program is modeled after a National Science Foundation GK-12 program, which was originally funded over ten years ago. The lesson presented here targets grades 5 through 8. Teachers who participate in this program attend a two-week summer workshop which is taught by our faculty and which addresses cutting edge research in a hands-on and friendly manner. Topics covered include, energy resources, water, and the Earth. Throughout the academic year, graduate students, who are assigned to assist between one and three teachers, provide up to 15 hours each week of direct classroom support. During this period, they assist in the instruction of STEM lessons, lead hands-activities, and work with small groups of K-12 students. The graduate students also participate in various outreach events throughout the school year that include judging science fairs and participating in school science nights.
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