NGSS, Phenomena, and the Use of Sense-Making in Science
Give students more opportunities to think, reason, and make sense of the world around them. Join the New Hampshire Learning Initiative (NHLI) for a hands-on, two-day design workshop crafted for K–12 science educators, coaches, and leaders. Rather than a sit-and-get presentation, this interactive session dives into three-dimensional, phenomenon-driven learning from both the learner and teacher perspectives.
What You Will Do
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Experience phenomena as a learner: Discover what creates genuine curiosity and drives the need to understand scientific concepts.
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Develop and revise models: Practice making student thinking visible and track how explanations evolve as new evidence emerges.
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Investigate authentic questions: Gather evidence out of a need to figure things out, not just follow lab step-by-step instructions.
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Connect the three dimensions: Seamlessly integrate Science & Engineering Practices (SEPs), Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs) to explain phenomena.
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Link to performance-based assessment: Connect classroom sensemaking directly to performance-based curriculum and assessment design.
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Design for your classroom: Translate core ideas into practical, high-impact learning experiences ready to implement with your students.
Who Should Attend
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K–12 science teachers, teacher leaders, and instructional coaches
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Science coordinators, curriculum directors, and district leaders
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Principals and school leaders responsible for science professional learning
Workshop Details & Options
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Dates & Time: Thursday & Friday, November 5–6, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
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Location: McLane Audubon Center, Concord, NH
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Cost: $500 per person (Lunch included)
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Facilitator: Sue Downer, Director of STEM and Performance Learning, NHLI
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Graduate Credit: 3 optional Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) graduate credits available for full participation at a discounted rate of $240/credit.