Science & STEM
Instructional Site
Science and STEM In the Community
All students PreK-12 will have access to grade level science that prepares them for College and Career Readiness with the necessary foundation in the three dimensions of the standards; disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices and cross cutting concepts. The k-11 Science block in APS will include explicit opportunities for all students to engage in science learning and apply the science and engineering practices to solve authentic STEM challenges. Along with developing technical literacy skills in the science block, each of the STEM disciplines will be incorporated into the block in the following ways:
Science behind how the technology works
Computational Thinking
1 computer science extension for unit. (elem. coming soon)
Each grade level includes at least one engineering unit where students apply their science knowledge to an engineering design challenge
Science and Engineering Practices
Using the Bridges STEM unit (elem)
Development of understanding of the measurement and data standards as well as mathematical practices
Theory of Action
If we have a dedicated time for science learning experiences in grades k-8 that:
Systematically and intentional builds scientific background knowledge through 3-dimensional learning (Science and Engineering Practices, Cross Cutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas)
Provides opportunities where students are applying algebraic and computational thinking to analyze and interpret data and;
Use reading, writing and speaking to explain science phenomena and design solutions
Then we will have students who can apply their deep conceptual understanding of ELA, Math and Science to solve real world STEM challenges.
Model Based Inquiry instructional framework has four core practices developed by University of Washington through National Science Foundation research grants. The four practices work together throughout every unit of study to support students in understanding the natural and physical worlds. The first practices is Planning for Engagement with Important Science Ideas which is supported through the storylines of each unit. The second practice is Eliciting Students’ Ideas in order to on make visible what students currently know about the science being taught. The third practice is Supporting Ongoing Changes in Student Thinking. In this practice teachers guide sense-making talk around investigations, lab activities or readings to help students make sense of the phenomena and big science ideas. Finally, Pressing for Evidence-Based Explanations, is where teacher scaffold students’ efforts to put everything together. For more information please visit the Ambitious Science Teaching website.