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PhD Science Curriculum Receives High Praise

PhD Science®, a curriculum designed by Great Minds PBC, is making waves in elementary education by consistently earning high marks from independent evaluators. The latest accolades come from WestEd, a respected nonprofit research organization, which recently assessed the Grade 2 Module 2 focused on Earth Changes. This module emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to understand how natural forces like water and wind influence the landscape over time.

An Inspiring Approach to Learning

In the review, the WestEd team highlighted various aspects that make PhD Science stand out as an educational resource. The curriculum's cohesive design fosters student engagement and offers them the autonomy to steer their learning journeys. This approach is essential in developing a solid understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), which encompass core scientific concepts alongside engineering practices and cross-disciplinary ideas.

Reviewers were particularly impressed by the diversity of student-led activities, such as analyzing local land samples and crafting systems for shoreline and lighthouse protection. These exercises not only teach scientific principles but also ground learning in real-life contexts that resonate with students, enhancing their overall educational experience.

Tailored Instruction for Diverse Learners

One of the curriculum's notable features is its provision of differentiated instructional resources. Teachers can easily adapt lessons to meet varied student needs, ensuring that every learner benefits from engaging materials tailored specifically for them. According to the reviewers, the materials used in PhD Science are both authentic and relevant, allowing students to explore meaningful phenomena that tie back to their communities.

Pam Goodner, Chief Academic Officer for Science at Great Minds, expressed joy over the recognition: “We’re thrilled to see another independent review affirm our conviction that PhD Science empowers students to explore authentic scientific phenomena in captivating, hands-on, and standards-aligned ways.” This sentiment echoes previous feedback, as WestEd previously gave strong marks to the Kindergarten Module 2 focused on Pushes and Pulls.

Free and Open Educational Resource

PhD Science stands out not just for its effectiveness, but also for its accessibility. The curriculum is available as a free educational resource for grades K-2, designed to immerse students in genuine scientific practice. With opportunities for inquiry, evidence gathering, and model creation, the curriculum engages students in investigating real-world issues. Its availability extends beyond elementary education, with materials also offered for grades 3-5.

The WestEd review utilized the EQuIP Rubric for Science, which aims to provide constructive feedback for continuous enhancement of the curriculum. Alongside WestEd's evaluations, PhD Science has also garnered high praise from the Louisiana Department of Education, securing a Tier 1 designation — the pinnacle of educational excellence.

About Great Minds

Great Minds PBC operates as a public benefit corporation and is a subsidiary of Ibis Group, a nonprofit organization. Their educational materials, crafted by experienced teachers and content specialists, are designed to resonate profoundly with students, teachers, and families alike. In addition to PhD Science®, the Great Minds portfolio includes acclaimed programs like Eureka Math², Eureka Math®, Arts & Letters™, Wit & Wisdom®, and Geodes® books, created collaboratively with the Fundations® reading program from Wilson Language Training.

For further information, contact Nancy Zuckerbrod at [email protected] or phone 202-499-6796.