iExploreScience: STEM in Elem
iExploreScience: STEM in Elem is for upper elementary teachers — especially grades 3–5 —who want to make elementary science and math more engaging, without adding more prep or overwhelm to their day. If you’re looking for practical ways to bring STEM and hands-on learning into your classroom while still meeting standards like NGSS, this podcast is for you.
Each week, you’ll get (ideally) short, (always!) actionable episodes (about 15–30 minutes) filled with classroom-tested ideas you can actually use. From simple STEM challenges and low-prep science activities to math routines, lab management, and neurodivergent-friendly strategies, everything is designed to help you keep students thinking, moving, and engaged—especially during the most challenging times of the year.
You’ll also hear honest reflections from real classroom experiences, with a focus on what works (and what doesn’t) in my 5th grade science and math classroom — no perfection required.
I’m Nicole, and I share practical, hands-on science and math ideas designed specifically for upper elementary teachers who want engaging, rigorous lessons without the overwhelm.
iExploreScience: STEM in Elem
114 What To Do When Your Science Curriculum Isn't Built for 3D
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Your district adopted a science curriculum. You hoped it would be well aligned with the NGSS. But, after reviewing it, you realized it wasn't built for 3D learning. You aren't alone.
This week we answer this question from Kim in California. The name of the publisher she mention has been removed because we believe the problems she is discussing are not unique to this particular publisher.
Kim says "I am a 7th and 8th-grade science teacher. Our district adopted [an integrated curriculum]. As a team, we don't love the program. The spiral organization doesn't really make sense and the SEPs and CCCs don't seem smoothly integrated. Do you have suggestions on how to adapt or utilize [this curriculum] specifically or adopted curricula in general? Thanks!"
Check out the full episode recap here.
Once you've listened, here is an episode for each of the things you can choose to work on:
- Science and Engineering Practices
- Disciplinary Core Ideas
- Crosscutting Concepts
- Phenomena
- Discovery-Based Learning
Other Resources:
- How to Create Engaging Storylines - Erin's Blog Post
- FREE 3d Lesson Planner - Sadler Science
- Nicole's Free Bringing Wonder Back Workshop
📬 Stay Connected
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