The University of Toledo

Classroom Activites

Our GK-12 team is active in the classroom with numerous activities, here are some highlights:

Annual GK-12 Poster Gala at the Lake Erie Center
Our poster galas feature posters displaying results of science fair projects by students in our participating high schools. The galas are attended by university and high school administrators, teachers, professors, students, politicians, parents, and community members. 

Student Watershed Watch
Our team is very active in the existing high school Student Watershed Watch program (SWW), developed by the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) that originally was founded by a former University of Toledo Professor, Peter Fraleigh (now deceased).

Science Fair Projects
The majority our our high schools did not participate in Science Fairs prior to joining our program. Each year we have increased the number of students competing in District 2 Science Day at The University of Toledo. Many of these projects have advanced to Ohio Science Day and two of our schools have implemented their own School Science Fairs since joining our GK-12 program.

Lesson Plans
Our group has developed 25 formal lesson plans which are available as kits to be exchanged within the group. These lesson plans span a wide range of topics; many are based on the Fellows' research and our watershed theme. The lesson plans are hands-on, inquiry based games and activities designed to enhance classroom instruction. Many lessons also include informational videos to accompany the written lesson plan. 

Annual GK-12 National Meeting in Washington D.C.
Each year members of our team attend the GK-12 National Meeting to network with GK-12 Programs throughout the country. Our team has benefited extensively from by attending these meetings each year. 

Out team has also facilitated: 

Aquarium design and set-up in classrooms

Guest lectures by University Professors, Researchers, and other graduate students 

U.S.A. Biology Olympiad