Amplifying Student Voices: Linking Assessment with Explore-Before-Explain for Dynamic Classrooms

Outline

0:00–0:05 | Introduction & Session Goals
Overview of the session objectives.
Introduction to the Explore-Before-Explain approach and its significance in modern education.

0:05–0:12 | Clarifying Evidence for Student Learning
Discuss strategies for gathering authentic evidence of student understanding.
Share examples of formative assessments that support diverse learners.

0:12–0:19 | Pinpointing Phenomena That Hook Students
Explore how to select engaging phenomena that resonate with students.
Discuss criteria for effective phenomena and share classroom examples.

0:19–0:26 | Connecting Student Experiences to Scientific Language
Techniques for bridging everyday experiences with scientific concepts.
Model discussions that integrate scientific and engineering language.

0:26–0:34 | Practicing Concept Transfer in New Contexts
Engage participants in activities that encourage students to apply learned concepts to new situations.
Discuss the importance of flexibility in understanding and real-world applications.

0:34–0:42 | Reflecting on Thinking and Developing Understanding
Introduce reflection strategies that promote critical thinking about learning.
Share methods for encouraging metacognitive awareness in the classroom.

0:42–0:50 | Q&A and Wrap-Up
Open floor for questions and reflections from participants.
Summarize key takeaways and provide additional resources for further exploration.

Supporting research

Books
Brown, P.L. (2023) Instructional Sequence Matters, Explore-Before-Explain Physical Science, Grades 9-12, NSTA Press: Arlington, VA.
Brown, P.L. (2019) Instructional Sequence Matters, Explore-Before-Explain, Grades 3-5, NSTA Press: Arlington, VA.
Brown, P.L., & Concannon, J. (2019). Evidenced-based science activities in grades 3-5. Meeting the NGSS. Routledge: New York.
Brown, P.L. (2018) Instructional Sequence Matters, Grades 6-8: Structuring lessons with the NGSS in mind. NSTA Press: Arlington, VA.
Brown, P.L., & Concannon, J. (2018). Inquiry-based science activities in grades 6-12. Routledge: New York.

Papers
McTighe, J and Brown P. (2023). Standards are not curriculum: Middle School Science, Science Scope.
McTighe, J and Brown P. (2020). Standards are not curriculum: Elementary Science, Science and Children, 58(1). 76-81.