Let’s talk systems.
I’m a sucker for lists. They help me think and process what I’m trying to do. I’ve made one for the Kindergarten standards to help you organize the NGSS for your classroom!
Since switching grades & subject matter, I’ve had to examine my classroom systems and adjust to the new requirements. It has taken a solid year or work to get the organization to this point. I hope this helps you organize the NGSS and get you started on your journey!
In order for your classroom to run smoothly, you need some sort of organizational system to keep track of ALL. THE. THINGS. right?
A well organized class with documentation is something we’d all like to achieve and I want to help you get there. If you’ve read anything about the NGSS, you know that there are a lot of components that need to be addressed for truly three dimensional learning.
You can review all three dimensions here in my post about the NGSS or in my workbook that you can print out and write on. (There’s even a bonus 5E lesson template in there too!)
How I Organize the NGSS
I’ll admit, it took me some time to find a method to organize the content of the NGSS. Making lists and compiling data makes me happy but this got to be overwhelming. Working at this for almost a year, I think I’ve found a great way to keep it all together.
I broke down the disciplinary core ideas (Kindergarten) into the three bundles. Each bundle relates directly with either physical, earth & space, or life science. It also has the corresponding performance expectations underneath the bigger bundle umbrella.
From there, I took the Cross Cutting Concepts and the Science & Engineering Practices along the left hand side. While I teach part of the bundle, I can check off what concepts/practices I have used.
Using this grid in Google Sheets has been a lifesaver. You can access the document here for yourself!
How is organizing the standards like this useful?
- It allows you to see the year’s standards at a glance to help in setting long term goals
- You can see what concepts & practices that you use frequently or not at all
- It reminds you of the importance of the cross cutting concepts and science & engineering practices
- You become accountable for teaching in 3D and using all components of the NGSS
If you need even more organizational needs, check out some of my other blog posts below!
What other organizational hacks should I try out?
Your Guide to Build and Organize a Makerspace
A Makerspace is a place to create, build, dream, and wonder for our scientists. They get a chance to make something with materials that you have provided. I’ll never forget the smiles and ooh’s/aah’s when I unveiled our new addition to our classroom. I worked for hours putting it together but the results were awesome!…
Here’s how to start using the NGSS today!
Explanation of the Next Generation Science Standards to understand how they are set up and what that means for your classroom.
Using the Engineering Design Process in Kindergarten
The Engineering Design Process (EDP) has changed everything about how I handle STEM activities in my classroom. When I went to school, we followed the Scientific Method; following specific directions to get 1 answer at the end of the experiment. The EDP works differently. The Engineering Design Process is an exercise that helps students understand…
