GEMS
Great Explorations in Math and Science
Central Michigan University ● EHS 459 ● Web: gems.cmich.edu ● Email: gems@cmich.edu
GEMS FALL 2015 WORKSHOPS
Invisible Universe
Friday, September 11, 2015 ● (Grades 6-8)
In an investigation of the electromagnetic spectrum students examine
wave motion, then face challenges at “invisible energy” stations,
including infrared (TV remote); radio; ultraviolet (black light) and
others. They learn that these have become powerful tools in
astronomy. Students are also introduced to Gamma Ray Bursts and
ponder the most powerful explosions in the Universe. Many color
images are included in the “Tour of the Universe.”
Acid Rain
Friday, September 25, 2015 ● (Grades 6-8)
In this stimulating unit, students learn about acids, bases, and the
pH scale; make “fake lakes” and determine how their pH changes
after an acid rainstorm; present a play on the effects of acid rain
on aquatic life; determine the effects of various dilutions of acid
on seed germination; and hold a town meeting to discuss possible
solutions to the problem of acid rain.
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Science &
Literacy
Treasure Boxes
How can you use text to supplement firsthand science
investigations? Find out how to incorporate trade books, reading,
and writing – and literacy skills in general into your science
instruction. Explore the ties between the English/Language Arts
and Science Common Core Standards by doing a variety of
investigations.
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Early Adventures
in Algebra
1.
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE
Friday, October 23, 2015 ● (Grades K-3)
Friday, November 6, 2015 ● (Grades 4-8)
Observing and recording moon orbits over time, students reenact
Galileo’s historic telescopic study of Jupiter’s moons and learn why his
observations contributed to the birth of modern astronomy. Students
experiment with craters, create scale models, and take a tour of the
Jupiter system.
1.
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE
Friday, October 2, 2015 ● (Grades K-6)
From postage stamps to bottle caps, a child's precious collections are
natural starting points for guided exploration and mathematic activities,
and can galvanize discussion of environmental concepts. In this
engaging, innovative series of mathematics activities, children create
personal collections of recycled, "found," and inexpensive objects and
investigate their properties, calling many important science and math
skills into play.
Moons of Jupiter
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE
Friday, November 20, 2015 ● (Grades 1-2)
Designed to build a foundation in algebraic thinking for students in the
early primary grades. Students learn the important role zero plays in
our number system, solve for unknowns, explore equality and
inequality, and are introduced to algebraic symbols. Builds crucial
scaffolding for more complex algebraic reasoning in later grades.
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE
EHS 129
1:00-4:00 pm
Cost: $5.00
Guide Cost: FREE