Middle School
Real Science Middle School Curriculum
The lessons in the Real Science: Pathways to Next Generation Science Standards books (middle school and high school editions) are a result of over 30 science teachers visiting local businesses and industries looking for applications of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Site visits included forestry, nuclear power, waste water treatment, genetic testing, and many others. Each lesson is written in a learning cycle format so that the concept is taught in the manner in which it is applied. All lessons tie specifically to one or more of the 16 Career Clusters as identified by the National Career Clusters Framework.
The Real Science curriculum was developed through a grant (Real Science and the Next Generation Science Standards CFDA-84.366B NCLB Title II Part B) funded by the U.S. Department of Education Mathematics and Science Partnerships Program and the Illinois State Board of Education.
Educators in Illinois can gain access to this entire book free of charge by contacting Rebekka Darner.
Integrated Mathematics, Science, and Technology (IMaST) Program
The IMaST program consists of hundreds of activities that have been carefully designed so students learn specific academic content. These activities are organized into learning cycles that allow the student to explore and apply the content. Throughout the process teachers provide guidance and monitor student understanding. Teachers are encouraged to ask appropriate questions rather than provide specific answers.