This teacher’s guide provides the background information, STEM concepts, and strategies needed to successfully implement an early STEM curriculum (Ramps and Pathways) with young children, ages 3–8. R&P actively engages young children in designing and building ramp structures using wooden cove molding, releasing marbles on the structures, and observing what happens. Children use logical-mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills as they explore science concepts related to motion, force, and energy. This guide helps teachers to: Structure and organize an engaging STEM learning environment. Understand and promote logical-mathematical and scientific thinking during investigations. Promote social settings that enhance communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Make the necessary accommodations and modifications for diverse learners. Integrate STEM concepts and skills with other content areas. Align teaching and learning with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Assess STEM learning using formative and summative assessments. Establish adult learning communities to support ongoing professional development. Help children develop habits and behaviors that contribute to positive attitudes toward STEM. This one-of-a-kind resource uses a newly created Inquiry Teaching Model (ITM) as the conceptual framework and devotes specific attention to the importance of an inclusive, social, STEM learning environment in which children are free to collaborate, take risks, and investigate within the context of exploratory and constructive play. “This book is a must for all concerned with the education of young children. Using ramps and pathways as an exciting and stimulating example of how to engage children in rich STEM experiences, this team of highly knowledgeable and skilled researchers and practitioners draw from their deep and extensive backgrounds to present a clear and comprehensive view of the current landscape of inquiry-based STEM teaching and learning for young children. It is a book that can and should inform both policy and practice.” —Karen Worth, Elementary Education Department, Wheelock College
Explore STEM concepts through making and tinkering!
Drawing from a professional development model that was developed with funding from the National Science Foundation, this book is an essential resource for anyone who wants to support preschool children to be STEM thinkers and doers.
Based on the argument that high-quality STEM education needs to start early, this book emphasizes that early childhood education must include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in developmentally appropriate ways based on the ...
A constructivist approach to physical science
This book provides more than ninety activities and learning center ideas that seamlessly integrate STEM throughout early childhood classrooms.
Connect nature play, outdoor experiences, and STEM learning with activities, real-life examples, and educator resources
Promising Practices for Engaging Families in STEM Learning explores how families, schools, and communities can join together to promote student success in STEM by building organized and equitable pathways for family engagement across all of ...
Illustrated in rich environmental tones and featuring additional information about storms in the back, this book educates, comforts, and empowers young readers in stormy or sunny weather, and all the weather in between.
Anika is working hard to build her new drone, but it's much more complicated than she thought. She needs a little help! How will Anika build her drone? This is a great way to illustrate STEM subjects, being inquisitive and patience.
An easy-to-use guide to rethinking your early learning environment with a focus on STEM using the Reggio Emilia approach lens.