Experiments Have Traditionally Been Over-Emphasized  Historically, for many educators, the indicator of a “good” science program was the number of experiments involved. These hands-on experiments would follow the scientific method: posing a question, testing a hypothesis, and drawing a conclusion. So it came as quite a shock when the National Research Council, in its “Framework […]

In each module, the Table of Contents summarizes student learning for every Driving Question, so teachers can see at a glance the student journey across a full module and the phenomena that will drive student inquiry. The PEs that students are working toward are also listed, and the different types of student investigation (hands-on, digital, […]

Investigations Based in Real-World Phenomena The three-dimensions of the NGSS are united by the use of anchor phenomena, which provide opportunities for real-world application of DCIs, SEPs, and CCCs. Anchor phenomena present situations in which students can develop mastery of the three dimensions in contexts and stories that reflect their real-world experiences. There is an […]

The Foundations of 3–D Learning The NGSS is built around three-dimensional learning—and so is Twig Science Next Gen. The three dimensions that make up each NGSS Performance Expectation—Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs)—are at the very foundation of the Twig Science program. Each module clearly identifies where it […]

We’ve created a 40-second video that outlines the Grade–Module–Driving Question–Lesson structure at the heart of Twig Science Next Gen. Once you’ve got the hang of how it works, you’ll never look back, because every single Twig Science Next Gen module adheres to the same logical and consistent design principles. Watch this video to find out […]

Collaborative ThinkTank Meet the team or, as we like to call ourselves, the Twig Science Collaborative Think Tank. The development of Twig Science Next Gen has been guided by our collective commitment to making science accessible to all. We do this through our engaging, phenomena-based storylines and flexible range of captivating resources. We’d like to […]

Whether in print, online, or hands-on, Twig Science Next Gen is flexible and fun, providing teachers with a system of support to bring the wonders of science and the motivation to learn to every student. Teacher Editions Modular Teacher Editions include flexible pacing, options for Fast Track and comprehensive lesson-planning, differentiated instruction scaffolds, and language […]

Before we get into the details of how the Twig Science Next Gen program works, we want to give you a clear overview of the content and how it is structured. In this section, you will find: Descriptions of our K–6 products, which include Teacher Editions, Student Books, lab kits, and other supplemental material. An […]

College and Career Readiness Exposure to science and engineering careers at the elementary level inspires and engages students—a great indicator of success at later stages of school, college, and career. The immersive storylines that make up Twig Science Next Gen modules involve students inhabiting a range of STEM career roles for weeks at a time. […]

Twig Science Next Gen lessons are all unique, with varied and exciting content. While each lesson follows the same cycle, the main activity varies according to the desired learning outcomes and the Science and Engineering Practices students master. The main activity could be any of the following (or a combination): Reading and engaging with texts […]