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Read-First Model
In the read-first model, students begin by reading texts that help
them build a foundation of understanding with the core science
ideas of the unit. Then they engage in hands-on investigations
and use other resources to explore examples related to the concepts
they read about. Students learn about general concepts before
using deductive reasoning to apply them to specific examples.
Vocabulary resources can be used at multiple points throughout
the unit to develop and strengthen students’ fluency with the
disciplinary language of science. TIP: Challenge students to maintain
a concept web throughout the unit that connects the examples
they explore later in the roadmap back to the core ideas they
read about in the Unit Nonfiction Book.
* Each unit includes one free book from Reading A–Z. To access other titles related to the science topic, a subscription to Reading A–Z or Raz-Plus is required.
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Do-First Model
In the do-first model*, students are immersed in unit concepts
by completing hands-on investigations that allow them to apply
science and engineering practices and construct their own
explanations of core ideas. Then students read texts, watch videos,
and complete more investigations that help them confirm or refine
their explanations. Vocabulary resources can be used at multiple points throughout the unit to develop and
strengthen students’
fluency with the disciplinary language of science. TIP: Have students
use a science journal to record the examples they explore through
activities and readings, then challenge them to design a concept
web that connects those examples to the core ideas they read about
in the Unit Nonfiction Book toward the end of the roadmap.
* This model may also be referred to as the discovery method, in which students use inductive reasoning to determine broad concepts by first exploring examples.
** Each unit includes one free book from Reading A–Z. To access other titles related to the science topic, a subscription to Reading A–Z or Raz-Plus is required.
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Project-Based Model
In the project-based model*, students work in teams to investigate
a science question or design a solution to an engineering challenge.
The PBL Project Organizer, SAZ Journal, completed project, and
group presentation all allow students to demonstrate what they
have learned and accomplished. The PBL Teaching Tips help teachers facilitate the project, while rubrics for
teachers and
students can be used to assess group and individual performance.
During planning and execution, students use other unit resources
to build their understanding of core concepts that they can apply
to their project.
* This model is sometimes referred to as a problem-based approach to learning, in which the objective is to solve a problem. In Science A-Z Project-Based Learning Packs, students do both—solve a problem and produce a product.
** Each unit includes one free book from Reading A–Z. To access other titles related to the science topic, a subscription to Reading A–Z or Raz-Plus is required.
