Project Grant 2446701

This $238,141 Project Grant award, funded by the National Science Foundation's STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076), will develop and test a three-dimensional learning progression for middle school physical science. The project will incorporate the Next Generation Science Standards' disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts. It aims to explore diverse student learning pathways and support teachers in creating equitable and coherent learning environments. The project will examine how teachers use the learning progression to adapt their curriculum, instruction, and assessments, and how students' knowledge-in-use develops in these adapted classrooms. A sub-award of undisclosed amount to Michigan State University will involve providing feedback on the learning progression, supporting teacher professional learning, and contributing to project publications. The findings are expected to expand research on learning progressions and provide guidance for improving science teaching and learning.