A CAREER SHAPED BY THE EARTH SCIENCE LITERACY PRINCIPLES: BUILDING A THRIVING HIGH SCHOOL EARTH SCIENCE PROGRAM

The Earth Science Literacy Initiative (ESLI) was drafted near the start of my career as a 12^th grade teacher. The goal of the ESLI was to identify “Big Ideas” that all Americans should understand. The Big Ideas and their supporting concepts have shaped the curriculum framework for two successful elective courses: Geology (college prep) and Honors Earth Science (dual-credit).

As a young teacher, I stepped into an elective Geology course for seniors who were not science-focused. Over the last decade, using the Big Ideas as guidelines, Geology has evolved into a lab-based capstone course that prompts students to focus on current events and concepts that will serve them as decision-making adults. Now these students are curious about their world and excited to learn. Students enjoy the focus on Big Idea 8: Natural Hazards. My goal is that they understand the potential for natural disasters on both local and global levels, as well as the effects that these disasters can have on a population. They develop action plans for survival in the case of disaster. The increased focus on Big Idea 5: Water aligns with current events. We look at the role of aquifers, rivers and engineering in shaping the landscape and allowing for human habitation. This course prepares them for a future as geologically-aware citizens across the country, the primary goal of the ESLI.

Following my introduction to the ESLI, I initiated dual-credit Honors Earth Science, which has exploded in popularity. There is more depth to the Big Ideas and supporting concepts than in my Geology course. For example, looking at Big Idea 1: Observation and Ideas, students discuss current research and practice modern techniques while investigating historically significant scientists who have shaped our understanding of the universe. Incorporating most of the Big Ideas, the final project involves designing a hypothetical star system based on the laws and principles that scientists have used to explain our own solar system.