Elementary Resources

A solid foundation of science education in grades K-5 is essential. Instilling a wonder and enthusiasm for science, as well as addressing the critical need for a well-informed citizenry is crucial during this time.

Featured Resources

Activating Learning with Phenomena

Journal Article

Uncovering Earth’s History, One Sample at a Time

Teaching Through Trade Books...

Journal Article

Advocating for Science from Within the Classroom

Journal Article

Phenomena-driven Science Instruction

Editor's Note...

Journal Article

Journal and Lesson Plans

Elementary Journal

Lesson Plans

Bestselling Elementary books

NSTA Press Book

Uncovering Student Ideas in Life Science, Volume 2: 30 New Formative Assessment Probes

Click here to view video of Uncovering Student Ideas in Life Science, Volume 2...

NSTA Press Book

Novel Engineering, K–8: An Integrated Approach to Engineering and Literacy

Download and read a sample chapter from this book to learn more.With the Novel Engineering approach, “students become excited about what they are reading, writing, designing, and building! This excitement in turn helps them make strides in enginee...

NSTA Press Book

A Head Start on Science, Second Edition: Encouraging a Sense of Wonder

Imagine what fun it could be for 3- to 7-year-olds to engage in a game of Prism Play or Magnetic Scavenger Hunt or Where Did the Shadows Go? Then imagine how convenient it would be for you if such activities came with the connections, standards, and ...

NSTA Press Book

Uncovering Student Ideas in Physical Science, Volume 3: 32 New Matter and Energy Formative Assessment Probes

Have you been wanting to learn more about what your students know (or think they know) about major concepts in matter and energy? Have you been wishing for formative assessment tools in both English and Spanish? Then this is the book you’ve been wa...

Latest Resources

NSTA Kids

The STEM Kids Make a Robot (Hardcover)

Click here to access online extras for The STEM Kids Make a Robot A diverse and curious group of classmates builds a robot to speed up the tray return line in the school cafeteria. Follow along as the invention takes these students on an adventure...

Web Seminar

Explore Leadership Opportunities: 2027 NSTA Nominations Session, September 23, 2026

Join us on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET, to learn about the leadership opportunities available on the NSTA Board of Directors and Leadership Council. Curious about serving in an NSTA leadership role?  Join us for an...

Web Seminar

Don’t Hide Your Passion: Let It Shine with an NSTA Teacher Award, October 14, 2026

Join us on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET, to learn about learn about the various NSTA award categories, eligibility criteria, and the application process. Your passion for teaching deserves to be recognized. In this session...

Web Seminar

Lab Safety Considerations for Pre-Service and In-Service Elementary Science/STEM Teachers, September 28, 2026

Elementary Pre-Service and In-Service Teachers! Join us on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 7:00 – 8:15 PM ET to learn about safety considerations for the elementary classroom....

NSTA Kids

Next Time You See a Star (Hardcover)

Invite readers to step outside, look up, and rediscover the wonder of the night sky. With poetic language and vivid imagery, Next Time You See a Star transforms the science of stars into an inspiring journey of discovery. Readers learn how light trav...

Web Seminar

Sponsored Web Seminar: Solve the Case: Bring Forensic Science into Your Chemistry Class, April 29, 2026

Join us on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM ET, to learn ideas on how to incorporate forensic science into your chemistry class....

Web Seminar

Archive: Presenter Essentials: Your Guide to Conference Success, March 4, 2026

This webinar is designed to help conference presenters feel prepared, confident, and ready to succeed while aligning with NSTA’s learner-centered, evidence-based approach to professional learning. The session will address essential conference l...

Member Web Seminar

Archive: Using Best STEM Books to Launch Authentic STEM Learning, March 25, 2026

Reading STEM trade books is more than a literacy experience—it is an invitation into authentic problem-solving, creative thinking, and real-world innovation. In this dynamic Book Beat Live!...

Web Seminar

Archive: January is for Advocacy: NSTA Legislative Initiatives for 2026

Topics to be discussed:...

Web Seminar

Archive: Making the Most of Attending an NSTA Conference - Anaheim 2026, March 24, 2026

In this web seminar participants will learn:...

Web Seminar

Archive: Navigating NSTA 2026 Spring Conference: A Guide for First-Time Attendees, March 26, 2026

This seminar is a great opportunity for first-time attendees to connect with fellow newcomers, NSTA leaders, and staff. Learn how to maximize your experience with tips on pre-conference preparation, effective networking, 'can't miss' sessions and eve...

Web Seminar

The Science of Hurricanes, Earth’s Most Powerful Storms, May 7, 2026

Join us on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET, to learn the basic science behind the formation, growth, and lifecycle of hurricanes, as well as groundbreaking research in better predicting these powerful storms....

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