Science Collaborative: Rider University and Springfield Township School

BILLDNGSS – Gap AnalysisAndrea Batchler Erica McIntyreHeather Pence Patricia SepessyAmy Lueckel Christine SkinnerErica McIntyre Ashley TrainoPatricia Sepessy Chelsea Ernst Christine Skinner

* Preparing for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in NJ: Collaborative Efforts for Implementation * CONNECT-ED Big Idea Learning & Leadership Development (BILLD) Institute/Big Ideas Learning through Science Practices

Year-long program that will guide teachers to help students more effectively build an understanding of big ideas through intentional connection-making instructional strategies 5-day immersion institute Continued coaching in lesson design via district-based collaborative learning groups Opportunity to participate in CONNECT- ED’s ongoing research about concept connection making in the classroom

Goals of BILLD 1.Refine lessons to promote deep learning 2.Work with multi-grade teams 3.Revise lessons to include more intention connection-making strategies 4.Practice these strategies in the classroom 5.Engage in peer review of the outcomes 6.Participant teachers will be better able to promote deep learning.

Expected from the standards Research is showing that if students learn connections, they perform better. Does not happen easily on its own – must be intentional (for teachers and learners) Leads to higher levels and greater retention of understanding Creation of lessons that include intentional connection- making steps (eg. questioning, diving deep, jumping levels-considering different perspectives)

- Assessments - Curricula - Instruction - Teacher Development

Grade bands K

Three Dimensions of Science Learning

1. Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering) 2. Developing and using models 3. Planning and carrying out investigations 4. Analyzing and interpreting data 5. Using mathematics and computational thinking 6. Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering) 7. Engaging in argument from evidence 8. Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Questions? Funding for BILLD is provided through grants to CONNECT-ED from: 3M Bristol-Myers Squibb Company The Martinson Family Foundation