Looking for a way to include space science in your curriculum? Interested in exploring nationally field-tested activities for teaching about the Solar System and beyond? The Adler is pleased to partner with GEMS (Great Explorations in Math and Science) to provide professional development for educators on the GEMS Space Science Sequence for 6th - 8th graders.

This exciting new curriculum was developed with NASA and leading astronomy educators, researchers, assessment experts, and GEMS curriculum development staff. The sequence was created as a response to the need for excellent, coherent, standards-based, supplementary curriculum that can be taught in the amount of time teachers can reasonably allot for space sciences. It is made up of four units ("How Does the Sun Affect the Earth?" "Why Are There Seasons?" "The Solar System," and "Beyond the Solar System") that can be implemented individually or in sequence. Kits, including the materials for teaching the units, will be available for check out from the Adler.

Please join us for this exciting workshop on August 12-13 from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. The $75 registration fee includes meals and four curriculum guides. Educators will earn 14 CPDU credits. One Semester hour of graduate credit is offered from National Louis University for this workshop for an additional $135 fee. Additional credits are offered for further workshop attendance, assignments and fees. To apply, please download, complete and mail in the registration form and fee payable by check to:

For more information about the Space Science Sequence or to view a video about the curriculum, visit http://www.lawrencehallofscience.org/gems/CurriculumSequences.

If you have any further questions please e-mail learn@adlerplanetarium.org or call the ACCESS Hotline at 312-322-0302.

Astronomy Connections is a professional development program designed to empower teachers with innovative and effective ways of integrating museum resources, earth and space science concepts, and inquiry-based teaching. Ultimately, Astronomy Connections engages students in meaningful learning experiences that support scientific literacy. Because Astronomy Connections is an interdisciplinary program, science and non-science teachers are invited to participate.