Next Generation Science Standards Investigation (Elementary)

The Next Generation Science Standards are out!   These standards represent a significant step forward in thinking about science curriculum and instruction. This workshop will provide an overview of the structure and intent of the standards. We will connect a sample science lesson with each section of the standards to illustrate what they could look like in practice.  We will particularly look at examples of CCSS math and ELA, and engineering connections in these science units.  We will share best practices for teaching science and planning lessons in an NGSS context, going through objectives, assessments and tasks.  Finally, we will review some of the support materials developed by the NGSS writers to help educators chart a path forward.

Your presenter, Kevin Anderson, works as a STEM education and accountability consultant for CESA #2.  He particularly enjoys helping teachers and administrators implement a project-based understanding of the CCSS in math and NGSS in science. He has recently been involved in a WI state leadership team designing professional development to roll out the NGSS.  Kevin completed his Ph.D. at UW-Madison in Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis with an emphasis on STEM education policy and leadership. He previously taught middle school science and math in Wisconsin and California, earning the distinction of National Board Certified Teacher in science. Previous to teaching, he worked at Stanford University researching systemic school reform and maintaining reform efforts through leadership turnover.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the science content of the Next Generation Science Standards as well as the role of the scientific practices and crosscutting concepts.

2. Draw connections between the NGSS and CCSS initiatives.

3. Develop a list of considerations to take back to your district.

Lunch Provided