Unit Builder

Proof Points...

The Unit Builder provides quick and efficient way to integrate the wealth of educational resources found in the STEM Education Collection. This tool provides a template for completing an entire science or mathematics standards-based unit of instruction that follows a Learning Cycle framework.

Instructional units are the fundamental elements of a comprehensive curriculum, in the sense of a broad course of study. Standards-based units share several common, integral components. Each rests on a foundation anchored in the standards that guide the content of the curriculum. Individual lessons drive the day-day delivery of classroom instruction. The assessment system provides an accurate picture of student performance.

Units found in the Teacher Work Samples section of STEMresources.com contain sets of lessons that have been integrated a five-stage Learning Cycle model developed by the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (1993).

Additional information about the Learning Cycle is located in the STEM Teacher Resources. In the learning cycle approach to curriculum development each step serves a particular instructional purpose and as such, incorporates different types of learning experiences. The model shown below describes the fundamental questions and types of activities that are most appropriate for each stage of a learning cycle.

The Way it Works…

The Unit Builder in essence, combines all of the individual tools found in STEMresources.com. Users who are familiar with these tools will have few problems working with the Unit Builder to design units that are standards–based and contain a comprehensive assessment plan and individual lessons that are fully aligned with the targeted standards.

Although the Unit Builder templates appear to be rigid and prescriptive, teachers can and should adapt them to their individual preferences and instructional styles. If you have no previous experience with this planning model, it is advisable to carefully study the structure of the sample units before beginning to use the Unit Builder template.

Classroom Adaptations…

The Teacher Work Samples section of STEMresources.com includes numerous examples of Unit Plans prepared by practicing teachers following the steps in this instructional planning protocol.