When you're just getting your STEM program off the ground, there are typically three main ways that teachers approach building or adopting their curriculum.
It can feel like a lot of options, but each path has its own benefits. Let's take a quick look at the three most common approaches:
In this approach, teachers design their own programs and curriculums by pulling lessons from a variety of sources like Google, Teachers Pay Teachers, and similar websites. Alternatively, teachers can develop original lessons inspired by ones they have encountered before.
These curriculums are available on popular teacher resale sites like Teachers Pay Teachers. They make excellent starting points for first-year teachers.
In this option, schools typically purchase the entire STEM curriculum. These programs are research-based. While they tend to be more costly, they provide much greater fidelity and detailed guidance on how to teach STEM effectively and are created by large companies .
Single Lessons
Teacher-Curated Curriculum
Complete Learning Packages
Comprehensive curriculum bundles and multi-lesson units developed by experienced educators for thorough subject coverage
Professional Quality
Materials similar to those found on Teachers Pay Teachers, offering classroom-tested resources with polished presentation
Purchase Options
Most include convenient purchase links or direct access pathways, making acquisition straightforward for teachers and schools. These curriculums are usually much more affordable than national curricula.
Teacher-Created
Lessons designed by educators for immediate classroom implementation
Quick Access
Simple downloads or video walkthroughs ready to use tomorrow
Acknowledgement
Always linked straight to the source and creators.
Diverse Formats
From printable STEM challenges to demonstration videos on YouTube
KINDERGARTEN
2ND GRADE
4TH GRADE
1ST GRADE
3RD GRADE
5TH GRADE
Popular Teacher-Recommended Curricula
Explore these outstanding curriculum resources created by respected educators:
Naomi Meredith
Offering innovative STEM and project-based learning materials that engage students through hands-on experiences. Visit Naomi's Curriculum
Carly and Adam
Specializing in collaborative learning approaches with ready-to-implement classroom materials for multiple subjects. Explore Carly and Adam's Resources
Miss Tech Queen
Technology-focused curriculum that seamlessly integrates digital literacy with core subject teaching. Discover Miss Tech Queen's Materials
These educator-created curricula exemplify the high-quality resources available to enhance your teaching practice and save valuable planning time.
National Curriculum
Research-Backed
Evidence-based programs validated through extensive educational research
Standards-Aligned
Fully aligned with frameworks like Next Generation Science Standards
Widely Adopted
Used by school districts nationwide as trusted educational foundations
Comparing Lesson Categories
This comparison highlights the key differences between each lesson category, helping you choose the right resource based on your budget, time constraints, and educational goals.
Purchase Options
Comprehensive
Complete boxed or web-based curricula covering entire academic years
Usually endorsed or required by schools and districts. Costs can be more substantial than teacher created resources.
Recommended National Curricula in Use
Project-based program combining digital and print resources with strong NGSS alignment and interactive simulations
Hands-on, kit-based curriculum used in K-8 classrooms nationwide, featuring materials for physical experiments and observations
Comprehensive mathematics curriculum known for coherent progression and deep conceptual understanding
Engaging elementary-focused program with captivating videos, ready-to-use activities, and minimal prep requirements
Get Started: Choosing What Fits Your Needs
When to choose free single lessons
Ideal when "modgpoging" your own program
Easily integrate into your existing curriculum or with lessons of your own.
Evaluate Students' Needs
Assess your students' requirements to tailor your approach.
Ideal for addressing specific skills
Filling gaps in your existing curriculum
When to invest in teacher-curated bundles
Comprehensive Units
Fully planned comprehensive units for the entire school year. Ideal for first year teachers.
Consistent Materials
Well-organized and consistent materials leaving you with more time to establish classroom routines.
When to adopt national curricula
Research-backed
Choose these when seeking research-backed, standards-aligned materials that provide consistent quality throughout the year.
Assessment considerations
Plan Time Availability
Consider your planning time to efficiently manage your tasks.
Quick activity for tomorrow
Perfect for trying new teaching approaches
Customization
Allowing customization to classroom and program needs.
Ideal for Schoolwide or District Implementation
Ideal for schoolwide or district implementation to ensure educational continuity.
Budget Constraints
Keep in mind your budget limitations when making decisions.