Teachers Explore Photosynthesis Through Inquiry-Based Learning

On March 27, 2025, the Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit welcomed Miranda Crotsley from Jennings Environmental Education Center for an engaging professional development session focused on environmental literacy and sustainability.

Crotsley, a recognized expert facilitator in environmental education, led a group of 6th–12th grade biology, life science, and environmental science teachers through a series of demonstration lessons rooted in the new STEELS standards. Teachers from Beaver Falls, Ambridge, Lincoln Park, and PA Cyber participated in the interactive session.

The workshop spotlighted a 3-D learning approach, specifically using an inquiry-based model to explore the process of photosynthesis. The lesson addressed many key Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (ELS) standards, giving teachers practical, hands-on strategies to bring back to their classrooms.

The BVIU is proud to partner with experienced professionals like Miranda Crotsley to support educators in aligning instruction with Pennsylvania’s evolving science standards.