Unit Roadmaps

Unit Roadmaps present three suggested sequences for incorporating Science A–Z resources into instruction. Teachers should consider their curriculum requirements, instructional philosophy, and available instructional time as well as students’ performance levels and interests. One model might be selected when teaching a certain science topic, while a different model might work best for another. All three roadmaps can also be mapped to the BSCS 5E Model.

Although the roadmaps present many of the resources in a linear pathway, certain resources can be used concurrently—in learning centers, for homework, or by applying the jigsaw method. All three models engage students in critical thinking, reading, writing, discourse, and the hands-on application of science and engineering practices.

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.

  • Start Here
  • Generate Interest

    Unit Guide
    spark activity
    Quick Reads
  • Core Text

    Unit Nonfiction Books
  • Apply Concepts

    Process Activity
  • Dig Deeper

    FOCUS Books Investigation Pack Science Videos
  • Independent Practice

    Interactive Science Lesson
  • Extend The Learning

    Career Files Debate Reading A-Z Books* Fiction Books

* 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.