GEMS Curriculum Sequences

Unique features of GEMS Curriculum Sequences: provides unique flexibility for effective instruction contains an integrated assessment system includes informational readings presents the teacher's guide using a unique design that supports teacher efficacy, providing guidance as needed

GEMS sequences are a uniquely flexible curriculum. For example, the GEMS Space Science Sequence for 6—8 is comprised of 4 units, each about two weeks long or less. It is possible to teach the units all during a single years' course of study; or, individual units can be taught each year over two to three years. Not all of the units in a sequence must be taught—each can stand alone as necessary. This flexibility allows schools to determine when to teach specific content based on their standards and curriculum requirements, using integrated units that naturally progress and build on prior knowledge.

In addition to great flexibility, GEMS Curriculum Sequences are being developed with close attention to the requirements of standards-based education, and the realities of the priorities placed on science in today's schools. These research-based materials are aligned to the National Science Education Standards and to other key concepts and abilities in state/district frameworks, with careful attention to key concepts that are commonly misunderstood. We have based the time allotted for each topic on feedback received from a wide range of schools as to how much time they can realistically spend teaching that material.

GEMS Space Science Sequences each include a CD-ROM with multimedia content and additional resources. In addition, both units are provided with teacher's guide (including extensive science background and an assessment system), a materials kit supporting the activities, a pre-printed set of transparencies, and copymasters for student sheets.

The teacher's guides are presented in a unique format to support effective teaching—step-by-step instructions are on the left hand page of each spread, while contextually appropriate resources (such as suggestions for going further, assessment ideas, additional science background, and more) are provided on the right hand pages.

The attention to flexibility, standards requirements, inquiry skills, and real-world time constraints make for a curriculum that meets the needs of a wide range of schools and their unique situations.

After space science we continue with an Ocean Science Sequence for Grades 3–5, and then an Ocean Science Sequence for Grades 6–8. We plan to eventually develop additional sequences in the areas of earth science, chemistry, and life science. The Ocean Science Sequences are being developed with the support of NOAA and in partnership with the NOAA Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve and Education Center, and Rutgers University Institute of Marine & Coastal Sciences, and other partners. The sequences will be designed based on the results of an extensive study which has helped us identify which key standards occur in selected states at each grade, and which content areas are most closely aligned to the Ocean Literacy Essential Principles. These sequences will provide educators the tools to teach essential science concepts in the unique and important context of ocean science.