What does it really mean for students to make sense of science? In this foundational webinar, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM ET, we will unpack the core principles of sensemaking—a student-centered approach where learners actively figure out how the world works by engaging with phenomena, asking questions, and building explanations grounded in evidence.

Together, we will explore what makes sensemaking different from traditional science instruction and why it’s central to the vision of Three- Dimensional Standards like the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Through real classroom examples and practical strategies, you’ll learn how to support students as they connect their ideas with science concepts, collaborate with peers, and use science and engineering practices to deepen their understanding.

This session will provide a clear starting point for educators new to sensemaking and fresh insights for those already on the journey. Whether you're a teacher, coach, or curriculum leader, you’ll walk away with tools to foster authentic, meaningful learning in your science classroom.

Participants will:

• Learn the key components of effective sensemaking
• Understand how phenomena anchor learning and drive inquiry
• Explore strategies to elevate student thinking and discourse
• Reflect on how to shift classroom culture to prioritize student ideas and evidence-based reasoning

Who should attend:

• K–12 science educators
• Instructional coaches
• Curriculum specialists who want to strengthen their understanding of sensemaking and build a strong foundation for 3D teaching and learning

All individuals receive a certificate of participation and 100 NSTA activity points for attending the live seminar and completing the end-of-program survey. A certificate of participation is not awarded for watching the recorded version of the program.

We invite you to register for upcoming web seminars at NSTA.