What’s Driving Your Curriculum?

Imagine stepping into a classroom buzzing with curiosity. Students are asking questions, proposing ideas, and seeking connections to the world around them. This isn’t just a science class—it’s a space where students are discovering the "why" and "how" of the natural world. This is the power of anchoring instruction with scientific phenomena.

Scientific phenomena are observable events that inspire students to ask questions and seek explanations. Whether it’s the sudden appearance of a rainbow after a storm or the intricate design of a spider’s web, phenomena captivate and engage. Modern science curricula leverage this natural curiosity, positioning phenomena as the centerpiece of learning. But why is this approach so effective, and how can teachers harness its potential?

Why Anchor Learning with Phenomena?

1. Authentic Engagement: Phenomena spark curiosity and make learning relevant. They connect classroom concepts to the real world, showing students that science is all around them.
2. Equity and Inclusion: When students explore phenomena, they bring their own experiences, cultures, and ideas into the conversation. This approach values diverse perspectives and creates opportunities for all students to contribute meaningfully.
3. Three-Dimensional Learning: Anchoring with phenomena seamlessly integrates the three dimensions of science education—disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts—as students work to make sense of what they observe.

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The Impact of Phenomena-Based Learning

Anchoring science instruction with phenomena isn’t just a teaching strategy—it’s a shift toward student-centered learning that mirrors the practices of real-world scientists. It’s about empowering students to think critically, collaborate, and communicate as they unravel the mysteries of the world around them.

As science educators, we have the privilege and responsibility to ignite curiosity and foster a sense of wonder in our students. By using phenomena to anchor instruction, we create classrooms where learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but about making sense of the world in meaningful and lasting ways.

Are you ready to transform your teaching with phenomena-based learning? Start small, be curious alongside your students, and watch as their wonder leads the way.

3 Resources to Dig Deeper...

• ?Scientific Phenomenon & Sensemaking Video from Paul Anderson
• Using Phenomena in NGSS-Designed Lessons and Units - A Practice Brief from STEM Teaching Tools
• Phenomena Resources (Including lists of phenomena) from Kevin Anderson, WI DPI

2 Questions to Ponder and Discuss...

• In what ways does phenomena based instruction help you with your instructional planning by integrating multiple topics in one unit?
• How is learning from phenomena based instruction beneficial for your students?

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1 Action to Take...

Integrate Phenomena into Assessments: Develop a formative assessment task that asks students to explain a phenomenon using the concepts and practices they've learned.