5th Grade NGSS Test Prep: CAST, PSSA, and States Using the Next Generation Science Standards
Teachers in NGSS states know that the struggle is real when it comes to test prep. NGSS-based standardized tests are full of diagrams, charts, multiple
Science Penguin Standards-Based Assessments
The movement toward data-driven instruction doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With standards-based science assessments from The Science Penguin, you can see what your
Getting Started with Phenomena-based Science in 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade
Let’s take a look at using phenomena in upper elementary science, particularly 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade! Watch and Learn with Mini PD In just
Think Sheets: Your Online Science STAAR Testing Solution
When standardized test day rolls around, there’s nothing worse than watching a student zoom through the test without writing a single word on their scratch
The First Week of Science (4th + 5th Grade)
The first week of school is always a complicated time when it comes to planning. How do you balance activities that are fun, meaningful, but
TEACHER QUIZ: Which Penguin Matches Your Science Teaching Style?
Take the quiz to find your science teaching style (and your perfect penguin match). Science teachers come in all styles. Some love stations, some live
2025-2026 School Year Science Penguin Updates
We have some exciting updates for the 2025-2026 school year! At The Science Penguin, we’re always working to improve older resources for the future. Please
Science Penguin Lockbox Challenge FAQ
Have you ever used one of Science Penguin’s Lockbox Challenges? If your students are into escape rooms, light competition, puzzle-solving, and hands-on fun, they just
5th Grade Science STAAR Test Prep 2026
As you may have heard, 5th Grade Science STAAR 2026 will be a little different than last year and will even differ from next year! About
The Science Penguin Mini PD
We value your time and want to make sure you have everything you need to be the amazing upper elementary science teacher you are. Your
CER (Claim Evidence Reasoning) in 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade Science
CER stands for claim, evidence, and reasoning. It is a scaffolded way for students to prove their understanding of scientific concepts in a written format.
End of the Year Teacher Hacks for 4th Grade & 5th Grade
1. Plan an engaging project that takes time to work on. I know how BUSY the end of the year is with paperwork, cleaning out