Let’s be real—traditional word walls just aren’t cutting it in a middle-grade science classroom. Sure, they look cute. Maybe they make your admin think you’re crushing the literacy game. But do your students actually use them? Are they really helping kids understand and retain science vocabulary? Spoiler alert: Nope. If
Let me take you back to my early days teaching physical science.I had my coffee. I had my standards. I had my can-do attitude.What I didn’t have? A clue. I was piecing together lessons from old textbooks, Pinterest rabbit holes, half-finished lab writeups, and the occasional Hail Mary Google search.
So you’ve been handed a science classroom. No curriculum. No materials. Maybe not even a full class list yet. Deep breath—you’re not alone. Whether you’re starting mid-year, filling in for someone else, or launching your first year in the wild west of middle school science, this post will walk you
If you’ve ever stared at the NGSS standards for physical science and thought,“Wait… what exactly am I supposed to teach again?”You’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get is what to teach in middle school physical science — especially if you’re trying to stay aligned with
Let’s be real: planning your middle school physical science curriculum can feel like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks. Between NGSS standards, pacing, activities, labs, assessments, and your sanity, it’s enough to make anyone want to hide in the supply closet with a pack of highlighters. But
Prepping your science year without a curriculum might sound overwhelming—especially if you’re teaching grades 5–8 and want to enjoy your summer, too. But with the right system, it’s totally doable—and you don’t have to spend hours glued to your laptop. Whether you’re a new teacher or just starting fresh, this
How to Teach Science Without a Curriculum It’s every new teacher’s nightmare—you’re given a science class and… that’s it. No curriculum. No pacing guide. No materials. Just an empty classroom and a roster of students expecting magic. Don’t panic. Here’s how to start teaching without a science curriculum and still
Starting the year with energy and engagement in your science classroom is crucial—especially if you’re working with upper elementary or middle school students. First impressions matter, and choosing the right science units can set the tone for curiosity, classroom culture, and student buy-in. Whether you’re a new teacher without a
Check out these fun ways to review with your students. Low prep, easy ways to make reviewing content fun and exciting again!
Classroom seating is a big part of classroom management. Use these tips to set up your classroom for success this back to school season.
Building relationships with your students by spending a few minutes each day getting to know them with this SEL activity. This back to school season learn how spending a few minutes a day can help form student relationships and help with classroom management. Plus grab the FREE sheet with over 50 getting to know you SEL questions!
Have too many post-its and not sure what to do? Check out these fun ways to use post its in your science classroom. The ideas will be sure to engage and solidify learning in your classroom.