Mrs Gulsvig's Science

I have enjoyed teaching in various high school biology, chemistry, and physical science classrooms for 5 years and have written curriculum for 6+ more in and around St. Paul, MN while I raise my three young kiddos. Looking at my curriculum, you will see my passion for scaffolding, formative feedback, and scientific modeling. I love teaching in urban schools and know that most accommodations are good teaching for all students!

Like a good science teacher, my style oscillates between 3 phases (not completely unlike the phases of matter): 1) "No man left behind" for the basic facts and standards I teach. Hard as ice. Lab experience and commit the basic facts or concepts to memory around and around until they are like... well... facts! From here, we build! 2) "Scientific Modeling" for experiencing the concepts built off the basic facts. Like a liquid, a bit more variable experience, depending on the student's misconceptions and need. Mostly concept practice and labs deducing scientific conclusions with plenty of formative feedback confronting their misconceptions. 3) "Scaffolded Inquiry Based Learning" for summary and extension lessons. I assist in sparking interest in longer term labs or experiments pertaining to real life. Like all science teachers know, "inquiry" could be modeled as a gas because it is so nebulous and must be carefully orchestrated to guide its direction!

I do my best and know my efforts are appreciated, but no one has given me a plaque with my name on it yet. Though if I never get one, I'll just fill up the walls of my classroom with so many posters that the fire marshal would never approve. I'm a rebel like that.

Bachelor of Science in Biology from University of Wisconsin-Madison Teaching Certificate in Secondary Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison

My passion for teaching and learning is evident, though my passion for nature exceeds it. I also love reading--from fantasy to non-fiction. I also love growing things... my children, plants, relationships... you name it!