Curriculum & Instruction

Instead of a traditional exploding volcano or foam-painted solar system, today's science fair projects focus on using the scientific method—from testing a hypothesis to presenting the findings.

As science education has expanded in recent years to adopt the Next Generation Science Standards—which include project-based learning and multidisciplinary studies in technology, engineering and mathematics—so have the corresponding science fairs.

In the future, expect science fairs and STEM nights to continue to move toward project-based problem-solving. As technology evolves and global communication grows, educators may begin to incorporate virtual exchange into their programs.

Want to transform your traditional science fair idea into one that fits a next-generation classroom? Check out these examples from Liza Rickey of Sartori Elementary School in Renton, Washington.

Many of us have supported the movement of flipped classrooms and flipped learning. It changes the pedagogy by turning traditional instruction upside down. Flipped classrooms move the independent work associated with homework to the classroom and the direct instruction associated with class to home. We can also flip our leadership and culture. How can traditional […]

When teacher Carol Behel surveyed parents of her elementary school English language learners, an overwhelming majority said they didn't know how to help their children with reading or math assignments.