Program Description
Connect Science is a curricular approach designed to prepare teachers to use Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) instructional practices, teach social and collaborative skills, and facilitate a service-learning experience in their science class. The sequence of 31 lessons are typically taught over 14 weeks or more; they replace existing fourth grade science units and can be integrated with other content instruction.
Program Outcomes
Connect Science (CS) was evaluated in a cluster randomized study with 41 fourth grade classrooms in a large public school district in the South Central U.S. Teachers assigned to Connect Science participated in four days of professional development during the summer and were provided with a manual that included the CS lessons, a box of science materials (e.g., batteries, bulbs, fan), and trade books to accompany lessons. Teachers implemented 30 CS lessons, each lasting between 30 and 50 min, over a 14–22-week period, whereas the control teachers used local curricula to meet the same science standards. Students in Connect Science classrooms scored significantly higher on a science achievement measure than students receiving business-as-usual science instruction (effect size = +0.36), earning Connect Science an ESSA Strong rating.
Staffing Requirements
No additional staffing requirements.
Professional Development/Training
Connect Science offers interactive training on high quality service-learning instruction, integration of social emotional learning into academics and best practices in teaching energy to elementary students. The professional development sequence is:
· Four days of professional development prior to implementation,
· One day after implementing with students has begun
· A half-hour-an hour coaching session (with a second session available upon request),
· One ½ day Reflective Practice session after implementation with students has ended.
All participants receive a manual that includes the 31 CS lessons, an example calendar for implementation, a kit of science materials (e.g., solar panels, motors, fans), and trade books to accompany lessons.
Technology
Teachers will need computers to access the web for videos, resources etc.