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SCIENCE in MIDDLETOWN
What are the science standards?
The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) are a set of K-12 science standards that were developed by states, for states. The NGSS identify scientific and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and core ideas in science that all K-12 students should master in order to prepare for success in college and 21st century careers. Read more about NGSS at the link provided.
PLTW
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is the nation’s leading provider of K-12 STEM programs. PLTW’s world-class, activity-, project-, and problem-based curriculum and high-quality teacher professional development, combined with an engaged network of educators and corporate partners, help students develop the skills they need to be successful in post-secondary education and beyond.
PLTW students are better prepared for post secondary studies and more likely to consider careers in critical STEM fields than their non-PLTW peers, research has shown. More than 100 college and university partners actively recruit PLTW students, providing them with opportunities such as admissions preference, scholarships, and course credit. PLTW works closely with a specific group of colleges, universities, and research institutions known as affiliates that host teacher training and professional development experiences in their states.
Visit the PLTW website to learn about the college and career focused opportunities from higher ed: https://www.pltw.org/experience-pltw/student-opportunities
More about PLTW Courses and College Credits
PLTW students are better prepared for post secondary studies and more likely to consider careers in critical STEM fields than their non-PLTW peers, research has shown. More than 100 college and university partners actively recruit PLTW students, providing them with opportunities such as admissions preference, scholarships, and course credit. PLTW works closely with a specific group of colleges, universities, and research institutions known as affiliates that host teacher training and professional development experiences in their states.
Visit the PLTW website to learn about the college and career focused opportunities from higher ed: https://www.pltw.org/experience-pltw/student-opportunities
Gaudet Middle School - PLTW Gateway Program with a focus on Engineering and Computer Science.
Our STEM curriculum is part of our core curriculum for ALL students. Gaudet STEM core courses are Design & Modeling, Computer Science for Innovators & Makers and Automation & Robotics and are part of the schedule for all students. There are other elective courses available for those students that are interested in this area.
Grades K-5 have selected the PLTW Launch Program to support their updated NGSS science curriculum. This supports the required engineering concept.
Science Curriculum Frameworks
The Science Curriculum Framework provides guidance around the implementation of the standards, particularly as it relates to the design and use of curriculum materials, instruction, and assessment.
The frameworks streamline a vertical application of standards and assessment across the K–12 continuum within Tier 1 of a Multi-Tier System of Support (MTSS), increase opportunities for all students, including multilingual learners and differently-abled, to meaningfully engage in grade-level work and tasks, and ultimately support educators and families in making decisions that prioritize the student experience. These uses of the curriculum frameworks align with Middletown's overarching commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality curriculum and instruction.