Kathryn Thomas
Clear Spring Elementary School
MD

Thu, Jul 01, 2021 10:33 AM
Good Explanation of Common Misconceptions

I agree with the ideas in this article, and specifically that a lot of tension regarding the NGSS comes from teachers wanting to hold on to past ways of teaching content through units or activities that are familiar and/or fun. I really appreciate the point that the emphasis of the NGSS is not depth of content, it is getting all students to a place where they can do science.

Thu, Jul 01, 2021 9:56 AM
Essential Reading!

This book completely upended my understanding of the NGSS and how instruction should flow from the NGSS. I realized while reading that I only had a partial grasp on many key concepts, and now I feel that I have much better understanding. From understanding the structure and purpose of the NGSS to how to actually build units, I can't believe I've been teaching the NGSS without this level of understanding. Highly recommended!

Thu, Jun 24, 2021 11:00 AM
A Great Connection to Environmental Literacy

This e-book gave me some great information relating to the 5th grade standard about how individuals and communities can protect the Earth's resources. There are also some really excellent connection to the Maryland state Environmental Literacy standards that are coming in the next year or so. Very clearly organized and with some really excellent concrete examples that could be the seeds for student research and action planning.