When you think of implementing Universal Design for Learning into science lessons, it may not always be the easiest right off the bat. But we can assure you that implementing the UDL Framework within science is very possible and helps to create a better experience for all of our learners! Through the use of UDL strategies, we encourage learners to develop as expert scientists, to make meaning from science and the seven crosscutting concepts (CC) that are the foundation of all sciences.
UDL and Science are a perfect match as science explores a wide range of possibilities, and creative thinking and problem-solving are encouraged, practiced, and explored.
The National Science Teaching Association has developed a set of standards for science and engineering that many state departments of education have used as a basis for statewide standards.
By growing students’ skills in the practice standards, we empower them to become expert learners of science. To demonstrate this, my colleague Tom Thibodeau and I started with three different lesson plans that were submitted to us by your fellow teachers.
Remember, you do not need to implement all UDL tips at the same time. As you reflect on your lesson planning process and reflect on grade-level standards, consider incorporating 1-2 strategies in each lesson until it becomes more a part of your practice. If you begin simply by asking students where in their lives they have used science, or when they have needed to understand the cause and effect relationship, you encourage them to model their lives with science(CC2). As you provide direct instruction in specific procedures, ask them to compare them to prior knowledge and reflect on the efficiency of those procedures (CC4 & CC6). Also, be sure to ask students to reflect on the options and choices that are most relevant, authentic, and meaningful as that will help you to plan future lessons that embrace variability, target grade-level goals, and foster student expert learning and collaboration (UDL Guideline 8.3).
Implementing UDL is a process. Start small. Look at one of your lessons and give it a UDL makeover. If you are looking to deepen your learning, explore our math makeovers or submit your lesson plan for a possible feature in an upcoming post.
Explore our self-directed course, Inclusive Practices in the Science Classroom. Learn strategies and approaches to design for students to think and act like scientists!
Self-Directed Course | Grad Credits Available
This was post was created by Allison Posey and Tom Thibodeau.