Deepening Conceptual Understanding in Middle School Life Science

University Of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst MA

Investigators

Abstract

9911401 CLEMENT This project will develop model curriculum units designed to produce deeper conceptual understandings in areas of the life sciences (Energy and the Human Body) that involve complex visual models. The curriculum for grades 7-9 will be subdivided into five distinct units of study: cell structure and function (cellular respiration emphasis), pulmonary respiration, circulatory system, digestive system, and relationship of respiration and ecosystems. The curriculum will require six weeks to cover a few of the units, several months to a semester to cover all of the units, and can be integrated with existing curricula or used as a stand-alone program. The curriculum will be comprised of a teacher's guide, student workbooks and a CD-ROM. The units will be developed in conjunction with a team of middle school teachers and will also utilize findings from current research on learning that have developed instructional methods for teaching complex visual models in biology. Learning outcomes will be assessed using transfer problems and alternative assessment tools that measure integrated conceptual understanding.