Science and Critical Thinking By Design: Graphic Organizers for Understanding 7th Grade Science Curriculum Workbook 1

These 1st Grade Science Curriculum Workbooks were written to assist teachers and students become more active in the science learning process. Each Unit and chapter guides students to think about what is expected of them as they read and isolate the critical concepts required by Common Core (CC) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Each book provides resources that target students with different learning styles and preferences. Each question guides students to a deeper understanding of the science concepts for their grade level. These workbooks allow students to collaborate with their peers to identify and learn the most critical science concepts, an approach recommended by 21st Century Skills. Since the format of these workbooks is process-oriented, students are actively involved in their learning experience. In addition, the questions in each chapter provide higher-order thinking (HOT) which increases critical thinking and academic rigor. Additionally, the books deliberately follow the standards-based format that, when implemented effectively, will provide students an opportunity to explore critical questions as they answer questions that challenge critical thinking at a variety of HOT levels. If students are allowed to progress through Book 1 (Unit 1 & 2) and Book 2 (Unit 3 & 4) for each grade level, students will have the tools needed to unlock understanding of the standards and curriculum for that year. This student-based learning format allows teachers the time and opportunity to group students and monitor their learning. As teachers become facilitators instead of experts in their field, students become more comfortable thinking critically and collaborating with their peers to find the answers for each activity, life skills they can incorporate in life and the world beyond the classroom. Book 1 contains over 320 pages of science activities that cover the science curriculum. The variety of graphic organizers provide comfort to students with different personalities and learning styles while developing critical thinking. The workbook is 8.5 x 11 inches, making it convenient for students who need space to write, complete activities, and not feel overwhelmed. With over 20 weeks of activities, teachers and students will never run out of activities to better understand science.