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BIO:
The way the world is constructed and how it works has always fascinated MaryEllen Bakken. This curiosity led her into the field of science – particularly studying aquatic ecosystems. These studies, as well as professional experience (state fish and game biologist and environmental scientist for an engineering firm) taught her how much the scientific disciplines dovetail.
She and her husband have homeschooled two children. She has served the community on the hazardous materials advisory committee. She led a 4H environmental project club and chaired the poultry department at the Middlesex County 4H Fair. Her club assisted the Stony Brook Watershed Association as field data collectors, running water chemistry tests as well as sampling and identifying benthic and pelagic organisms. Agriculture is still a part of their family life through 4H club activities and caring for their flock and organic garden. The domestic critters of various species outnumber the family members 14 to one! When not minding the homestead, the Bakkens can be found kayaking, exploring the Maine coast, playing music, or making and flying kites (physics!) Needless to say, science has been woven into the fabric of Mary Ellen’s professional and family life.
Homeschooling has been a wonderful adventure for their family, and another great excuse for continuing the exploration. MaryEllen has taught several homeschooling classes including science, math, and engineering design.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:
The integrated goals for the New Hope Tutorial middle school science course are:
- To stimulate each student’s curiosity about their world
- To learn to use science as a tool to explore their world
- To introduce several scientific disciplines through relevant hands-on activities
- To introduce and practice the scientific method of investigation
- To introduce basic scientific principles
- To encourage each student to appreciate and be a good steward of God’s creation.
Science provides limitless opportunities to investigate the complex aspects of God’s creation. MaryEllen’s explorations into science have not only given her more insight into and awe of the wisdom, power and love of our Creator, but have instilled in her an awe of and gratitude to Him for His amazing gift of creation - from the arrangement of atomic particles to the workings of the galaxies. Being a good steward of His creation and helping others to appreciate His gifts is Mary Ellen’s small way of giving Him glory.
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