How can we move beyond traditional science instruction to help students design, test, and refine solutions to real-world problems? This workshop invites 6th-12th grade science educators to explore how engineering practices can elevate traditional science content into hands-on, problem-solving experiences. Led by your ESC STEM and Science Specialists, participants will analyze the Scientific and Engineering Practices that are a part of the Texas Science TEKS, explore methods for assessing engineering design, and identify clear entry points in their existing units. Walk away with fresh ideas, flexible strategies, and tools to foster innovative thinking in your students. Learning Objectives:
- Examine the Science TEKS to determine how Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) can enhance core science concepts in grades 6-12.
- Explore practical classroom strategies to facilitate student driven problem definition, testing, and solution refinement.
- Analyze existing science units to pinpoint strategic opportunities for embedding engineering design challenges and real-world problem-solving.
- Begin developing flexible, student-centered learning experiences that foster innovation, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.
