Creating Science Curriculum

I've been asked many times where the ideas for my programs come from. The answer is a combination  of places: Research, collaborating with other creative classroom teachers and mostly just keeping in touch with the magic in the world. Yes, I said "magic". Not a very scientific term but one that every child understands. Don't get me wrong, writing curriculum is hard work. It takes me months to write a program. Some flow smoothly from the beginning and others are excruciatingly difficult.

I usually start with the "bones" or science standards. Then the process begins. I keep what needs to be done tucked in my mind. I remain open to anything that remotely is related to the topic, even though I'm not sure at the time, how it relates. Then the research starts. What is out there? What has already been done? Is there something good that just needs refinement? (Chain-Chain-Chain) Is there a way to present difficult information that simplifies it and makes it memorable? (CELL-ebrate and Naturally Newton) What information is new? (Mag-lev trains, lasagna composting, DNA switches)  All this goes into the "pot", kind of like the book, Stone Soup. Then I usually get very quiet, either outside in nature or in my own head. Next thing I know the "magic" starts to put things together. I know when I'm headed in the right direction when I start smiling to myself and anticipate the children feeling good about themselves as they are doing the experiments. If our talented scientists and teachers say, "Yes". The program is on its way.

Some of my favorite programs I wrote from ground zero are, Home on the Biome, Soil Safari, This Planet Rocks, Give Me Shelter and Oceans in Motion.

Measurement Rules was one that was excruciating but has met with good reviews. Let me know which is your personal favorite, changes you would like to see, and what if anything you would like in the future. I love when the magic happens. Just give me a reason find it again.