Episode 77 - Lee Trampleasure "30 Years Teaching High School Science"

Episode 77 - Lee Trampleasure "30 Years Teaching High School Science"

From Science Modeling Talks by Mark Royce

February 1, 2026 · 35 min · Episode 77

About this episode

Mark talks with Lee Trampleasure about his experiences in teaching high school science and the impact of modeling instruction.

In this episode, Mark talks with Lee Trampleasure, starting with how he found modeling instruction 20 years ago. They talk about the various courses he teaches and how we may sometimes need a reminder that just as we feel like brand new teachers again when we first start modeling, our students aren't used to developing the science themselves and sometimes it takes a whole semester before things "click." Lee shares some ideas for how to adjust our modeling workshops for our post-COVID, Zoom world. They also talk about ways for modelers to connect in community, even if they are the only modeler in their school. Guest Lee Trampleasure Lee has spent 30+ years teaching science, mostly physics, from physics first (9th grade) to AP physics C: Mechanics. He has also taught chemistry and yearbook. He took a break from teaching about ten years in, to work with the SEPUP curriculum group. Lee also leads geology-focused hikes in the San Francisco area. Website | Facebook | Bluesky | X | Meetup     Highlights [14:14] Lee Trampleasure "I love teaching physics first because kids are building their math skills at the same time that they're building their physics skills. And I think we…

People in this episode

Host: Mark Royce

Guest: Lee Trampleasure

Topics covered

  • modeling instruction
  • high school science
  • post-COVID education
  • community building
  • physics education

Keywords

  • modeling instruction
  • high school science
  • physics
  • education
  • community
  • post-COVID
  • teaching strategies

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: SEPUP

Places: San Francisco

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