Great Explorations in Math and Science (GEMS)
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The GEMS Center at Florida State University is part of a network of GEMS centers. GEMS units are activity-based science and mathematics curricula developed at the University of California by Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science. These STEM curriculum units involve K-8 students in the practices of science and incorporate interdisciplinary connections in science instruction.
Professional development experiences are offered for K-8 teachers using the GEMS curricula to enhance the teaching and learning of science in the classroom. Additionally, our GEMS Center director supports classroom teachers through classroom outreach to help them engage their students in GEMS activities.
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Our GEMS center is dedicated to providing assistance to teachers interested in implementing GEMS curricula in their classrooms. Visits are custom designed with teachers to help them explore science learning with their students. All GEMS curricula are standards based, engaging students in the practices of science. Prior to scheduling a visit, teachers should begin by familiarizing themselves with GEMS units (called guides by the GEMS organization) found on the national GEMS site or contact us to customize lessons to meet their specific needs.
To request assistance, contact Todd Bevis. Requests are prioritized based on a number of factors that may include date and activity availability, demonstrated need, participation history, and program capacity.
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We offer a wide range of teacher professional development opportunities including county-wide and single-school workshops, cooperative teaching, model teaching, and curriculum planning. GEMS workshops can vary in length from three hours to four days depending on the needs of the group. Individuals may also join workshops already scheduled on a space- available basis. All GEMS workshops introduce teachers to GEMS curricular units through experiencing the units and then unpacking the instructional methodologies that underpin them. For K-8 grade teachers, GEMS workshops provide a good foundation for further development of teaching practices that support the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and the national Next Generation Science Standards. For more information contact Todd Bevis.
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