Wonder, Investigate, Know.
PhD Science® is a hands-on K–5 science program that sparks curiosity as students build enduring knowledge of how the scientific world works.
PhD Science students think and act like real scientists as they ask questions, gather evidence, develop models, and construct explanations while investigating authentic phenomena.
All students deserve the opportunity to build an unshakeable knowledge of the scientific world. That’s why we offer PhD Science for Levels K–2 as an open educational resource (OER).
PhD Science Receives High Marks from WestEd
Read how PhD Science was evaluated on the EQuIP rubric in the categories of:
- NGSS 3D Design,
- NGSS Instructional Supports,
- and Monitoring NGSS Student Progress.
Knowledge Matters Campaign Celebrates PhD Science as A High-Quality Science Curriculum
PhD Science classrooms were visited and celebrated by the Knowledge Matters Campaign with students building enduring knowledge and skills in science, reading, and other areas.
Inspiring students to wonder about the world and empowering them to make sense of it.
Fostering Curiosity to Build Enduring Knowledge
Children are curious and observant and need the opportunity to make sense of the world around them. And yet, when it comes to science instruction, students are too often left reading about scientific discoveries of the past and memorizing scientific facts instead of experiencing science. PhD Science was crafted to change that, leveraging students’ curiosity to build a deep and lasting understanding of science.
ACTIVITY BASED
PhD Science students achieve strong comprehension through hands-on activities and interactive simulations, actively engaging in science to build knowledge instead of relying on memorization.
STUDENT LED
Teachers facilitate the learning, but students own it. Like real scientists, they ask questions, synthesize information, and apply their understanding to new contexts.
COHERENT STORYLINE
Each lesson builds on the lessons before it, so students develop their understanding of science concepts in the context of each module's anchor phenomenon.
Through this knowledge-building approach, PhD Science students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that extend well beyond a science lesson.
Watch a guided walk-through of the curriculum.
Access our state alignment studies to see how PhD Science supports your science standards.
Interested in piloting PhD Science? Learn more.
Building Science Knowledge Through Fine Art
Art and science both begin with a sense of curiosity that invites students to observe, question, and make sense of the world around them. Artists often highlight specific aspects of a phenomenon, sparking students’ curiosity about it and providing them with a new access point into the learning. PhD Science weaves art into science content, allowing students to practice the scientific skills of making observations, asking questions, and noticing patterns while they share what they notice and wonder.
Explore the Connections to Art.
Everything Needed to Teach and Do Science
PhD Science includes print, digital, and hands-on materials kits designed to spark student curiosity and provide
teachers with high-quality instructional materials to lead every science lesson with confidence.
For Teachers
A Teach book for four module topics covered in a school year includes all lessons and teacher support items.
Formative and summative assessments are embedded in every module.
The PhD Science digital experience equips educators with tools to facilitate impactful lessons and heighten student engagement. There are digital versions of the Teach book with annotation tools, investigation videos, customizable lesson slides, and more. Teachers can assign digital assessments in Levels 2–5 and monitor student progress.
For Students
The Science Logbook is where students will synthesize the information and reflect on what they’re learning.
Hands-on materials kits include most of the materials needed to conduct the investigations in each module.
Knowledge Deck™ cards help Levels K–2 students build knowledge on the module topic with engaging images and informational text.
Trade books have been carefully selected to support each module’s anchor phenomenon and provide students with additional literacy practice.
Students in Levels 2–5 access assigned tasks and review assignments and scores in the digital experience.
Family Tip Sheets provide caregivers with guidance on how to best support their scientists at home.
Supporting Teachers Before, During, and After Implementation
Guidance and Coaching Built into Every Lesson
Our teacher–writers crafted the curriculum to help teachers make that transition from a lecture-based classroom to one where they guide student exploration. The Teach book includes a Launch, Learn, Land lesson plan structure and additional support in every module to facilitate the learning.
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Language Support guidance
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Differentiation and Extension notes
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Spotlights on three-dimensional learning
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Implementation Guide
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Teach book appendices resources
- And more.
Professional Learning from a Trusted Colleague
Our science team members have crafted a series of professional development sessions and personalized coaching bundles to support both teachers new to PhD Science and experienced implementers.
Science is a dynamic and intriguing field of study. Here’s the curriculum that proves it.
Questions?
Do you have any questions you would want to ask our experts? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions for answers to our most-received queries. Are there other questions you have? We’re here to help.