Virtual PD     | Join MnSTA    |   

Engaging English Learners in Science

April 12 - 13, 2017

Two-Day WIDA Workshop for Teachers of Science and the Language of Science:  Engaging English Learners in Science

Dates: April 12-13, 2017 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Sign-in and networking starts at 7:45 a.m.

Location: Minnesota Department of Education, 1500 Commerce St. – Roseville, MN 55113

Cost:  Free – we do not have a budget for food so please plan to make your own arrangements for breakfast & lunch – and plan to bring your own coffee J

Description:   This interactive two-day workshop offers teachers of English Language Learners time to delve into combining English Language Development Standards and Science Practices. In collaborative groups of educators, we will develop a common understanding of academic language in a science and engineering environment. After developing a common understanding of language expectations, we will explore strategies and supports that foster a language rich environment. Through hands-on experimentation and analysis of language embedded within the content and practices, participants will have a deeper understanding of how to engage language learners of a variety of proficiency levels. The workshop will conclude with participants applying the process to one of their lessons.

Audience:  Partners/teams composed of science teachers and EL teachers. The content of the workshop is focused on science and the language of science. This session was designed for participants who regularly engage in curriculum planning and instruction in these areas.

Objectives:  At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Create a common understanding of Academic Language and proficiency levels
  • Have a deeper understanding of the Science and Engineering Practices
  • Engage in instructional strategies that support creating language rich environments for students to create meaning in the science and engineering classroom
  • Apply targeted supports for a variety of proficiency levels

Register Here: Space is limited - Please complete the registration form to sign up for this session – again, this session is intended for science educators and teachers of the language of science:        

                    https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7TRWSWF

About the Presenter:  Troy Dassler is a Professional Development Outreach Specialist with WIDA. He has 20 years of teaching experience in ESL/Bilingual Education. He also belongs to the National Association of Science Teachers, Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers, and is part of the national implementation team for the Next Generation of Science Standards. He has been awarded the Toyota Tapestry Award, Top Notch Teacher, and ING Unsung Hero Award. He also gave a TEDx talk on bringing nanoscale science to elementary students.  He started his career as a Peace Corps Volunteer teaching in Los Chiles de Alajuela in Costa Rica.

Questions to:

Michael Bowlus

English Learner, Refugee Education Specialist and Federal Programs Area Director

Division of Student Support

Minnesota Department of Education | 1500 Hwy 36 W | Roseville, MN 55113

Tel (651) 582-8254 | Fax (651)582-8727 | www.education.state.mn.us

michael.bowlus@state.mn.us