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1. An introduction

Carbon formed here on Earth through fusion. Calcium formed similarly; ever since the evolution of life, calcium has been used not only on the cellular level in ion exchange, but it has served as an essential component of the protective integuments of organisms ranging from coccolithophores to scallops. These elements, like many others, cycle biogeochemically. They are part of inorganic and organic compounds, during abiotic and biotic factors. In particular, the cycles of calcium and carbon are so intertwined that a science department would do well to study the seamless mutualism of these elements. Discuss biogeochemical cycles. Earth as as set of systems: hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. Biochemicals cycle through all four. Present a Venn diagram on this. Elements are the basic building blocks of all matter. Therefore it should stand to reason that elements could be used to teach any of the sciences. A module based in the elements can be used and modified by teachers of all sciences, whether required or elective:

Biology Chemistry Physics Earth Science Anat and Phys Environmental Science

Not only does this approach show the integration of the sciences (this is crucial for a student), but it unifies teachers of those disciplines. We will discuss approaches to using this module as a department. When all is said and done, perhaps we will have an element by element collection of modules, in a way, it will be a collection of case studies on elements. Each module will have an overarching theme based on a global issue that we must all deal with, as well as extensions that delve into specifics… Problem of ocean acidification


 * Insert RATIONALES:

= = ***Talk about teaching across science standards.* We will discuss the objectives met by each discipline, but a common objective will be (to paraphrase): ** Students will be able to explain the effects of global warming on the oceans and sea life


 * Using this in departments BRIDGING THE GAP


 * A concept map of calcium carbonate*

2. A **lab on ocean acidification** follows. A protocol with teacher guide, student handout and assessment* will be included * with alternative assessments

3. Extensions of this lab and concept

Kidney stones Karst and mollusks Calcium supplements Etc L ow frequency sonar transmission

4. Conclusion: Possibility to do other elements/compounds? Nitrogen and ammonia, etc. Discuss our rationale for using other elements. 4b. Teach teachers how to use our framework?

1. Concept map the compound. 2. Current event/issue 3. Accessible Lab

References: =Meeting standards through integrated curriculum= By Susan M. Drake, Rebecca Crawford Burns- This book suggests that a intradisciplinary approach to science education helps students to understand the connections between subdisciplines and their relationship to the real world.