KnowAtom's Blog

Effective Curriculum Helps Students to Learn as Scientists & Engineers

Apr 10, 2016 by Francis Vigeant

When you look at Next Generation Science Standards, it’s easy to see that the curriculum you're developing needs to create a classroom environment where students have the opportunity to not only develop an understanding, but to demonstrate that understanding, because that's going to be the expectation of next generation assessments. And in order to help them develop that understanding, they must truly engage with the material as scientists and engineers. 

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Topics: Crosscutting concepts, System-Level Alignment

Closed-Loop Communication: Key for Successful Transition to NGSS

Apr 5, 2016 by Francis Vigeant

A smooth transition to next generation science standards requires the basic NGSS hands-on materials, professional development, and curriculum alignment to be in place, specifically effective support for teachers around Next Generation Science Standards and a system of closed loop communication, which keeps all stakeholders on the same page and focused on effective STEM instruction. 

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Topics: Closed-Loop Communication, System-Level Alignment

Critical Milestones for the Release of Responsibility in an NGSS Classroom

Apr 3, 2016 by Francis Vigeant

When evaluating alignment to NGSS, ask how well the curriculum releases responsibility to students over the course of the year.

Let’s begin by asking how much time should you be spending on learning. This question is easily answered, even if the implementation is not quite so simple. 

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Topics: higher order thinking, System-Level Alignment, release of responsibility

NGSS as a Hallmark Innovation in Science Instruction

Mar 13, 2016 by Francis Vigeant

It is crucial to understand that the NGSS represent a true innovation in science standards. Innovations aren’t iterations; they don’t simply make an existing model a little better. These innovations change science teaching and learning. 

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Topics: Next Generation Science Standards, System-Level Alignment, Evaluating Curriculum

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