The Structure

​The Science Workshop Model structure follows the traditional Opening, Work Session, and Closing segments similar to Reading, Writing, and Math Workshop.  


Each SWM Unit is 3 weeks long with an embedded third week for project/problem-based learning with STEM/STEAM, performance tasks, and additional labs. 

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Opening Segment:

• Cobb Science Mystery Video Phenomenon
• Science Literacy Read-Aloud
• Daily Mini-Lessons

Work Session:

• Science content stations
• Hands-on investigations
• Reading Comprehension
• Content vocabulary application

Closing Segment:

• Student-led Discussion
• Formative Assessment options
• Student demonstrates or communicates connection to phenomenon

Benefits of Implementation

• Provides a balance of whole class, small group and individual instruction to support focused teaching & learning​​
• Includes independent & collaborative work time​​
• Provides opportunities for more “student talk” and less “teacher talk”
• Engages students with science & engineering practices through a hands-on, center-based approach

CTLS Teach Resources

Kindergarten Sample Unit Plan

5th Grade Sample Unit Plan

Unit plans for K-5 SWM can be found in CTLS Teach in each grade level science course.

1. Open your grade level science course in CTLS Teach
2. Click on the Unit Navigator tab and select a science unit
3. Click on the Topic Navigator tab and then scroll down to the Instructional Strategies tab
4. Click on the Instructional Strategies tab and you will find the SWM Unit Plans under the yellow heading in the table.

Cobb Mystery Science Video Phenomena

Each SWM unit has an Anchoring Phenomenon that will be utilized throughout the entire unit.  Each video is less than 2 minutes long and provides a real-world phenomenon that students can use to promote questioning and the creation of the unit Guiding Question Board. 

Sample Cobb Science Mystery Phenomenon Video