Traditionally elementary teachers are not trained to teach earth science, but that is a major portion of the fifth grade SOL test. Last year the Science Museum provided additional training to our third grade teachers. Test scores at the participating schools have increased from 8 percent to 31 percent. We hope to see similar results in our fifth grade tests this year. We re pleased to work with Richmond Public Schools, says Science Museum Education Director Pat Fishback.
Science education is our mission.
We re perfectly situated to put together collaborative programs that bring together public and private groups who have education as a primary focus. Teacher training has already begun. The last group session is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 6, 3-5 p.m. at the Science Museum. Teachers in the sessions learn to identify rock formations and minerals. They also receive a Rocks and Minerals of Virginia kit, instructional material from the Virginia Division of Mineral Resources and a Luck Stone Rock Kit.