7th Grade Science Teacher

The middle science school classroom teacher is responsible for creating a positive learning environment where students can develop the skills to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, lifelong learners and productive citizens. Teachers will become familiar with the Utah SEEd standard of science. Science teachers understand science is a way of knowing, a process for understanding the natural world. Science teachers will help students develop scientific knowledge including ongoing questioning, testing, and refinement of ideas when supported by empirical evidence. Because science is an active endeavor, students best learn science by engaging in it. This includes making lessons that have students gather information through observations, reasoning, and communicating with others. It is not enough for students to read about or watch science from a distance; learners must become active participants in forming their ideas and engaging in scientific practice. Teachers must show students that science is composed of multiple types of knowledge and tools. These include the processes of doing science, the structures that help us organize and connect our understandings, and the deep explanatory pieces of knowledge that provide predictive power. Teachers will show students that science is represented by the “three dimensions” presented in the Utah SEEd standards. These include science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. Taken together, these represent how we use science to make sense of phenomena, and they are most meaningful when learned in concert with one another. Teachers will also be expected to maintain a safe environment; establish rapport with students, parents and colleagues; motivate pupils to develop attitudes and knowledge that will help them reach their potential and be prepared for higher levels of education. Teachers differentiate curriculum and use effective research-based methods of instruction.