The inclusion of engineering in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) as a key component of K-12 science learning has provided both opportunities and challenges for elementary teachers. One challenge is integrating the design thinking processes that undergird engineering with core science concepts and current issues facing scientists and…

One of the most powerful strategies to support next generation science instruction is the use of instructional models. The Biological Sciences Curriculum Study 5E (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate) instructional model is arguably the most widely used version of a learning cycle in today's classrooms. The use of the 5Es as an…

Engineering is prominently included in the "Next Generation Science Standards" (Achieve Inc. 2013), as it was in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012). The National Research Council, authors of the "Framework," write, "Engineering and technology are featured alongside the natural sciences (physical…

Outlines the formula and the preparation needed to design lesson plans adaptable to any science situation. Provides a detailed example using molds. (Author/MA)

Revises Taba's model in developing a short course, "Winter Environment," in environmental education for use in elementary schools. Lists five course objectives and describes evaluation instruments to test the success of each objective. Suggests a model for curriculum evaluation. (CS)

Presents a framework to help schools make environmental education integrated. The framework is also designed to help teachers decide if and what activities would be appropriate for their classes and to show how decisions can be made which relate environmental education within and across grades. (Author/EB)

Presents a hands-on activity as an excellent starting point for investigations related to the eye. Involves making a simple model of the vertebrate eye to illustrate the formation of an upside-down image on the retina by the lens. Links to investigations in numerous science disciplines including astronomy, genetics, biology, earth science, and…

Describes a project for building a neighborhood model by a group of primary students. Integrates science, mathematics, and social studies. (KHR)

Presents seven classroom practices for beginning and senior science teachers. Categories include community, curriculum, constructivist connections, confidence, competence, computers, and caring. (YDS)

This standard lesson on identifying salt and sugar crystals expands into an opportunity for students to develop their observation, questioning, and modeling skills. Although sugar and salt may look similar, students discovered that they looked very different under a magnifying glass and behaved differently when dissolved in water. In addition,…

Presents a hands-on, exploratory science unit to study the biodiversity of the African tropical rain forest. Students study the vegetation, animal population, and human habitants of the forest. (MDH)