Innovative, research-based curricula for improving science teaching and learning

The NSRC Curriculum Development Center researches, develops, and publishes inquiry-centered science education curricula that can be used by school districts to construct core instructional programs.  The NSRC has developed two comprehensive science curriculum programs for K–8 students.

What Teachers Have to Say About the NSRC Curriculum

Elementary Curriculum: Science and Technology for Children® units

Middle School Curriculum: Science and Technology Concepts for Middle Schools^TM modules

Research-based Curriculum

Science and Technology for Children (STC) and Science and Technology Concepts for Middle Schools (STC/MS):

• Are aligned with the National Science Education Standards of the National Research Council
• Were developed using a rigorous research and development process
• Were field-tested with diverse student populations representing urban, rural, and suburban districts
• Were assessed by an external evaluator and reviewed by master teachers, scientists, and engineers to ensure scientific integrity and educational effectiveness
• Provide age-appropriate opportunities for children to expand their conceptual understanding of important science concepts, acquire problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, and develop positive habits of mind toward science
• Incorporate opportunities for reading and reflection, discussion and analysis, and writing and independent study
• Offer students opportunities to apply newly learned concepts and skills to their everyday lives
• Incorporate assessment tools and the critical implementation needs of both teachers and districts

In the Classroom -- What Teachers Say

“I have used the STC/MS program in my class for quite a few years now…I really like the fact that on a daily basis, my students are not just reading about certain content area…rather, they are ‘doing it.’  I have found that the program allows me to address the needs of a broad spectrum of student abilities all in one lesson!  I have especially seen a dramatic change in students’ attitudes towards science.  They just can’t wait to find out what we’re doing next!”

“As a new teacher, without an extensive science background, I found the STC/MS program to be very easy to use….The activities are thought provoking, yet easy to set up and manage.  The lessons provide opportunities for constant assessment, which gives the teacher better understanding of how the students are progressing.”

“Scope and sequence are STC’s strengths.  The program engages children in inquiry-based process skills and science concepts.  STC has a really nice flow.”

“We liked the quality of the STC kits and the design of the instruction that comes with them….The Teacher’s Guide is logically arranged, so teachers can go through the unit in sequence.  The guide makes it pretty easy for teachers – even if they’re a little uncertain about science activities.”