Curriculum
Curriculum
Embedded Files
Elm Road began its STEM journey in 2017, and STEM has been a cornerstone of our educational approach ever since. Each day, students engage in age-appropriate, evidence-based STEM activities that enrich every part of their learning. Weekly, students build digital literacy and technology skills through platforms like Code.org, Typing Agent, Google Classroom, and Seesaw. We have integrated Project Lead The Way (PLTW) since 2010, and in 2019, we expanded with Picture Perfect STEM to deepen students' STEM exploration and career awareness.
Throughout Elm Road's years of STEM implementation, several programs have been used, and refined by teachers to create authentic learning experiences at each grade level. Elm Road’s approach to STEM curriculum is interdisciplinary and student focused. Teachers have autonomy within their grade level to choose lessons from PLTW, Picture Perfect, and 1st Maker Space lessons in addition to teacher created lessons, to fit into their STEM time. Additionally teachers use an interdisciplinary approach with our My View + Mystery Science to create a STEM instructional approach that ties math, science and literacy skills in a cohesive manner.
Our teachers bring learning to life by using the 5E Model of Instruction, creating seamless connections between Mystery Science and MyView reading curriculum, and delivering engaging, real-world problem-solving experiences. Additionally, we incorporate Project-Based Learning as an evidence-based STEM approach to enhance critical thinking and hands-on discovery. The Elm Road community is dedicated to providing high-quality, authentic STEM opportunities that equip every student with essential skills and foster a lifelong passion for learning.
2.1 Curriculum Integration
2.1 Curriculum Integration
At Elm Road, our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to integrate STEM across subjects, ensuring that 100% of our planned instruction is evidence-based and aligned with Indiana Academic Standards. Students engage in hands-on learning through Project Lead The Way (PLTW), Picture Perfect STEM, Mystery Science, and Mystery Writing, all of which bring STEM concepts to life and support interdisciplinary connections. By following the 5E Instructional Model, we provide students with inquiry-based, real-world learning experiences that foster curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking across all grade levels.
2.2 Curriculum Implementation
2.2 Curriculum Implementation
Elm Road’s STEM curriculum integrations have been implemented with fidelity for over five years, as outlined in our STEM Curriculum Implementation Plan. Our comprehensive approach combines Picture Perfect Science, 1st Maker Space, Mystery Science, MyView, Project Lead The Way (PLTW),and Code.org to provide a well-rounded, integrated STEM experience. Each component works together to ensure students receive consistent, high-quality STEM education that builds critical skills across multiple disciplines, preparing them for future success.
2.3 Computer Science
2.3 Computer Science
At Elm Road, all students receive dedicated, weekly computer science instruction, with protected time built into our master schedule. Students engage with Code.org both in the STEM Lab and in their classrooms, guided by their teachers. Additionally, Project Lead The Way (PLTW) models support the teaching of computer science standards, providing students with hands-on, structured learning experiences that foster computational thinking and digital literacy skills essential for future career rediness
2.4 Employability Skills
2.4 Employability Skills
Elm Road takes pride in preparing students with essential, future-ready employability skills that benefit them in all aspects of life. Through our "Buddies" program, students engage in collaborative lessons that foster skills like teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and self-management. Beginning in the winter of 2025, the "Buddies" program will integrate more art connections to science and literacy, thanks to our partnership with the Raclin Museum of Art. These enhancements, along with classroom instruction, STEM activities, and guidance lessons, provide students with a comprehensive foundation in employability skills, preparing them for success in any path they choose.
2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners
2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners
At Elm Road, we are committed to providing access and opportunity for all learners. Every student has full access to our integrated STEM curriculum, supported by 5E lesson plans that include highlighted accommodations tailored to meet diverse needs. We ensure that accommodations are embedded into lessons to support students’ individual learning styles, providing an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. This commitment to accessibility and support enables every learner to fully participate in our engaging, hands-on STEM experiences.
2.6 Assessments
2.6 Assessments
At Elm Road, teachers use a diverse range of assessment methods to evaluate learning and ensure instructional effectiveness. Students demonstrate their understanding through both formal and informal assessments, including test scores, unit assessments, spot checks, and rubrics. Interactive tools like Pear Deck, IXL and Seesaw activities provide additional insights into student progress, allowing teachers to monitor learning and make data-driven instructional adjustments that support student success.
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