NGSS ALIGNED DATA-RICH LEARNING MATERIALS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION SCIENTISTS

Data-centric investigations naturally lend themselves to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the three dimensions of alignment. Students learn the skills of scientific inquiry by experiencing scientific practices and cross-cutting skills as they analyze data. To connect students with Earth science data, UNAVCO has developed a suite of data-rich, classroom-ready lessons that are free to educators and the public. Using GPS data available through the EarthScope Plate Boundary Observatory operated by UNAVCO, students can authentically discover underlying concepts of Earth science such as plate tectonics, tectonic deformation, and volcanic deformation. While in the past these lesson plans integrated state and national education standards, revising the lessons to include NGSS requires a shift in approach. It has required an extra step that goes beyond displaying an alignment table in the teacher’s guide. Infusing the NGSS into the lessons, materials have been modified to more clearly articulate to students that they are learning concepts such as observation, data analysis, pattern recognition, systems thinking, and developing and using models. This philosophical shift embeds a metacognitive component for the students. Through the revised learning activities, K-12 students therefore become scientists engaged in the practice of science and are exploring and deepening their understanding of the world through scientific practices. We will share the successes and challenges of aligning existing activities with the NGSS and next steps to further enhance the quality of the lessons through rubric assessment.