Building Foundations of Scientific Understanding

Science is such a vast realm of knowledge and skills, it is hard to know where to start or what direction to go. In these volumes, Nebel distills teaching science into distinct “learning progressions” that develop knowledge and understanding in systematic, incremental steps. Following these progressions will guide students toward a broad comprehension of facts, ideas, and concepts embracing and integrating all major areas of science. Furthermore, the described methods of presentation, which emphasize first-hand observation and reasoning, will guide students to practice and develop the mind skills that underlie all scientific discovery. The learning progressions and emphasis on “discovery learning” make these books valuable for older beginning science learners, as well as K-8 students, and serve in preparing them to master the Next Generation Science or other state science standards. A place for ongoing Q and A, discussion of problems, and sharing of ideas is provided at no additional charge (see: bfsucommunity.com).

This is the most comprehensive science curriculum for beginning learners that you will find anywhere.

• Here are 41 lesson plans that cover all major areas of science.
• Lessons are laid out as stepping stones that build knowledge and understanding logically and systematically.
• Child-centered, hands-on activities at the core of all lessons bring children to observe, think, and reason.
• Interest is maintained and learning is solidified by constantly connecting lessons with children's real-world experience
• Skills of inquiry become habits of mind as they are used throughout.
• Lessons integrate reading, writing, geography, and other subjects.
• Standards, including developing a broader, supportive community of science learners come about as natural by-products of learning science in an organized way.

Particular background or experience is not required. Instructions include guiding students to question, observe, think, interpret, and draw rational conclusions in addition to performing the activity. Teachers can learn along with their students and be exceptional role models in doing so. Need for special materials is minimized. Personal, on line, support is available free of charge (see front matter).