Embedded Files
Science (6-8)
Science (6-8)
OpenSciEd (OSE) Massachusetts is a research-based, open-source, middle school (6-8) science curriculum designed to align with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and now also aligned with the Massachusetts Science & Tech/Engineering Framework. OSE units have been reviewed by Achieve's NextGenScience Peer Review Panel and have earned their highest rating, the NGSS Badge for High Quality Design.
This infographic provides a general path through an OSE unit using the routines.
The OpenSciEd Instructional Model
The OpenSciEd Instructional Model
The OSE Instructional Model uses a storyline approach– a logical sequence of lessons that are motivated by students’ questions that arise from students’ interactions with phenomena. To help teachers and students advance through a unit storyline, the instructional model takes advantage of five routines—activities that play specific roles in advancing the storyline with structures to help students achieve the objectives of those activities. The routines typically follow a pattern as students kick off a unit of study, investigate different questions they have, put the pieces together from those investigations, and then problematize the next set of questions to investigate. As students engage in this process they figure out, and make sense of, the phenomena they are investigating.
phenomena.mp4Using phenomena as a means of figuring out science and engaging in sensemaking (2:48 min)
Using phenomena as a means of figuring out science and engaging in sensemaking (2:48 min)
Click on the video above to learn more.
OpenSciEd intro.mp4A closer look at OpenSciEd MA (2:58 min)
A closer look at OpenSciEd MA (2:58 min)
Click on the video above to learn more.
Proposed Implementation Timeline (Year 1, 2021-22 school year)
Use the links below to explore the Unit 1 storylines for each grade level:
Use the links below to explore the Unit 1 storylines for each grade level:
To learn more about OSE's open-source materials visit: OpenSciEd.org
Human Growth & Development
Human Growth & Development
History & Social Sciences (K-5)
History & Social Sciences (K-5)
HMH Social Studies, K-5
HMH Social Studies, K-5
One of the two curriculum programs the district is considering next year is Houghton-Mifflin Harcourt's Into Social Studies. These resources align with the (2018) Massachusetts Frameworks for History and Social Sciences and would support the district's efforts towards aligning with the new content and practices within the frameworks. For more information about HMH, click on the video and program brochure below.
Primary Source, Grades 2-5
Primary Source, Grades 2-5
Dedham is also considering a partnership with Primary Source. Primary Source has been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as a leader in curriculum development. Their resources align with the (2018) Massachusetts Frameworks for History and Social Sciences and would support the district's efforts towards aligning with the new content and practices within the frameworks. Primary Source currently has two curriculum programs that align with the Frameworks: 1) Cornerstones for Civic Engagement which supports students in Grades 3-5 and 2) Straight from the Source which supports students in Grades 2-5. Click on the documents below to learn more.
Cornerstones for Civic Engagement Sample Lessons.pdf
DESE Model Curriculum Pilots, Grades 5 & 7
DESE Model Curriculum Pilots, Grades 5 & 7
DESE Model Curriculum Pilots
Dedham teachers in Grades 5 & 7 have been invited to participate in piloting model curriculum for the state. The following table outlines the topics and timelines for the pilot.
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