Using FOSS in Multiple Classrooms

Some schools have a science resource teacher who teaches science to all of the students on a rotating basis. The specialist may see three or even four third-grade classes on Monday, three or four first-grade classes on Tuesday, and so on. Even though FOSS was not designed for the science resource room model, it can be adapted for back-to-back use of the activities. This document is designed to help resource teachers anticipate the additions and modifications they will have to make for multiple uses of FOSS modules designed for grades 1–6 (except Measurement, for which no additional materials are needed). Kindergarten modules, which are conducted for the most part in centers, are also omitted.

The questions that must be answered are,

• How much additional consumable material will I need?
  
• What additional permanent equipment items will I need?
  
• Are there additional management and preparation considerations?
  

We assumed that no more than 32 students will be in the science room at any one time, and that a FOSS Measurement kit is available whenever modules for grades 3–6 are in use. We further assumed that the module kit is in fully refilled condition so that there are enough consumable materials in the kit for the first two classes.

Each page of this document is devoted to one module. The information in the chart suggests the additional material you will need for that number of classes taught back-to-back. Part numbers and package quantities are supplied. Most of the items are consumable (indicated in the lists with an asterisk), but in some modules you will need additional permanent materials so that each class can have its own evaporation dishes, aquariums, etc. There is also a list of teacher-supplied items for the whole module and another list includes other things to consider.

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