Living Things for Grades 3–5 from Hands-On Science for British Columbia: An Inquiry Approach completely aligns with BC’s New Curriculum for science. Grounded in the Know-Do-Understand model, First Peoples knowledge and perspectives, and student-driven scientific inquiry, this custom-written resource:

• emphasizes Core Competencies, so students engage in deeper and lifelong learning
• develops Curricular Competencies as students explore science through hands-on activities
• fosters a deep understanding of the Big Ideas in science

Using proven Hands-On features, Living Things for Grades 3–5 contains information and materials for both teachers and students including: Curricular Competencies correlation charts; background information on the science topics; complete, easy-to-follow lesson plans; digital reproducible student materials; and materials lists. Innovative new elements have been developed specifically for the new curriculum:

• a multi-age approach
• a five-part instructional process—Engage, Explore, Expand, Embed, Enhance
• an emphasis on technology, sustainability, and personalized learning
• a fully developed assessment plan for summative, formative, and student self-assessment
• a focus on real-life Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies
• learning centres that focus on multiple intelligences and universal design for learning (UDL)
• place-based learning activities, Makerspaces, and Loose Parts

In Living Things for Grades 3–5 students investigate plants and animals. Core Competencies and Curricular Competencies will be addressed while students explore the following Big Ideas:

• Plants and animals have observable features.
• Living things have features and behaviours that help them survive in their environment.
• Living things have life cycles adapted to their environment.

Jennifer E. Lawson, PhD, is the creator of the Hands-On books published by Portage & Main Press. As senior writer and editor for the series, she has contributed to more than 50 publications for teachers and students. Jennifer provides professional development workshops for educators locally, nationally, and virtually, and is a Workplace Wellness Advisor. Her most recent book is a collective effort called Teacher, Take Care: A Guide to Well-Being and Workplace Wellness for Educators. She is also one of the founders of Mission to Mexico, an organization that supports schools in some of the most impoverished communities in Puerto Vallarta. Throughout her extensive career in education, Jennifer has worked as a classroom teacher, resource and special education teacher, consultant, principal, university instructor, and school trustee. She lives with her family in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Jennifer E. Lawson's profile page