Thanks for your interest in considering incorporating Bugscope into your teaching! Because such a large number of schools have expressed interest in remote use of the Bugscope for examination of arthropods, we must select from those schools based on written proposals. Don't be intimidated by the process. It simply allows us more information so that we can better communicate with each classroom and continue to expand the program. The recommended process is not a formula to be rigidly adhered to - feel free to add to the application as you feel appropriate without exceeding the length recommendation.
Presenting Background Information
The first thing you need to do in this component of the application is to briefly describe anticipated background preparation prior to scheduled specimen viewing. This information may include any or all of the following: 1) your own pertinent background, 2) arthropod-related discussion and student activities you anticipate completing prior to the viewing session, 3) specific type(s) of arthropod(s) you would like to observe during your viewing session and 4) anticipated follow-up activities and discussion to be performed after your viewing session. Finally, we would also be interested in how you plan to evaluate your students understanding of the arthropod-related activities and discussion throughout your unit. Most viewing sessions will focus on examination of arthropods, though Bugscope viewing is not restricted to arthropod-based units. Bugscope also may be incorporated into other areas of study, including microscopy and technology. Feel free to be creative using Bugscope in the way which you believe will be most useful to your students!
In summary, here is a check list of what we desire in the first part of your proposal:
Be certain to limit your background information to a maximum of four paragraphs. You may want to work on your initial draft using a commercial word processing package such as ClarisWorks, Word or WordPerfect. Please spell-check prior to submission. You may also consider having someone else read over your proposal prior to submission.
Click here to see components of some well written proposals, submitted during Spring, 1999.
What Happens After Submission of Your Application for a Viewing Session?
We'll review applications, promptly informing you when we have received your application. You should hear from us regarding the status of your application in several weeks. Because of the number of applications that we receive, we are unable to provide each applying teacher a classroom viewing session. If your application is accepted, congratulations!!! If not selected initially, consider submitting a more detailed application which continues to conform to the above-presented guidelines.