Enhancing Student-Focused Science Instruction: Implementing FOSS Pathways Resources - EDC-X770AA

Course Description

Credit Validation for DoWEA Participants Only

This graduate-level continuing education course supports K-5 educators in implementing FOSS Pathways to strengthen standards-aligned science instruction and advance three-dimensional science learning. Through six professional learning sessions, participants will explore the use of Anchor Phenomena, Science Notebooks, Sense-Making Discussions, Assessment, Science-Centered Language Development, and Three-Dimensional Learning to support student sensemaking, scientific reasoning, and engagement with grade-level science standards. Emphasis is placed on making student thinking visible, integrating reading, writing, speaking, and listening into science learning, using evidence of student learning to inform instruction, and engaging in ongoing professional reflection and collaboration.

Learner Outcomes

• Design and implement science instruction using anchor phenomena to support student sensemaking and engagement with grade-level science standards
• Apply three-dimensional learning within FOSS Pathways lessons to engage students in Science and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas aligned to DoDEA Science Standards
• Implement Science notebooks to make student thinking visible, support scientific explanations, and gather evidence of student learning
• Facilitate sense-making discussions that promote scientific reasoning, evidence-based explanations, and collaborative student discourse
• Use assessment practices within FOSS Pathways to monitor progress toward grade-level standards, analyze student understanding, and inform instructional decisions
• Integrate Science and ELA practices, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening, to support student sensemaking and communication in science
• Reflect on instructional practice (Plan, Teach & Monitor, Analyze, and Respond) to support continuous improvement in science instruction
• Collect, analyze, and share evidence of student learning to evaluate student progress toward grade-level science standards and inform instructional decision-making

Course Details

Number of Units: 2.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for DoWEA Participants.

University of San Diego – Graduate-Level Extension Credit Information

The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level extension credit(s) in semester hours through the Credit Validation Program. To earn units, participants must register for and successfully complete coursework through the external program provider.

Credits earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program are widely accepted by many school districts and universities across the United States for purposes such as license renewal, required professional development hours, short-term skill building, salary advancement, credentialing, and potential advanced degree pathways.

These units do not apply toward a master’s or higher degree program at the University of San Diego; however, they may be transferable to advanced degree programs (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at other institutions that accept external graduate-level credits.

Participants are responsible for confirming acceptance, transcript requirements, deadlines, and applicability of units with their employing district or intended institution prior to enrollment.

Please Note: USD does not provide course materials, manage instruction, or assign grades. All coursework is evaluated by the program’s instructor or coordinator.

Transcript Process: Final grades submitted by the program provider will initiate the transcript process. Grades should be submitted within 7 days of the official course end date or the course enrollment deadline—whichever comes last. Participants are responsible for ensuring their mailing address is accurate and up to date in their USD student account to avoid delays in transcript delivery.

Transcript Delivery Timeline:

• U.S. addresses: 2–3 weeks
• International addresses: 3–4 weeks