Creating Classrooms Where Every Learner Shines

At West Side Middle School, science doesn’t just happen, it comes alive! In Margaret Dippell’s 6^th Grade classroom, energy fills the air as students dive into GLC’s Our Solar System unit. During a lesson on gravity her classroom became a vibrant hub of curiosity, collaboration, and hands-on discovery, a shinging example of how the Grade Level Certified (GLC) Science Curriculum transforms classrooms into places where every student can thrive.

From the moment students walk in, they’re all in. Without hesitation, they grab their Data Notebooks and highlighters, ready to investigate like real scientists. A brief review of key vocabulary and past concepts helps anchor the day’s lesson- seamlessly connecting prior knowledge to new exploration.

As students highlight main ideas and discuss the reading, Ms. Dippell skillfully pauses to connect new ideas to previous concepts, deepening understanding and modeling scientific thinking in real time. The room hums with energy as students make connections, back up their ideas with evidence, support and encourage one another. This is science learning at its finest- active, inclusive, and meaningful.

“Even students who struggle with reading and writing are excited to participate and share what they observe.” Ms. Dippell shared. “GLC makes science accessible and fun for everyone.”

The magic happens during the hands-on investigation! In small groups, students explore gravity through four unique scenarios. Together, they predict, build, test and record observations to uncover how gravity shapes our world. Ms. Dippell moves through the room asking purposeful questions, sparking reflection, and celebrating those incredible “aha” moments.

Most importantly, every student is included. GLC’s adaptable design ensures that all learners have the support and confidence to succeed.  Visuals, collaboration, flexible grouping, and writng opportunities create a classroom where every learner shines..From engaging reading to hands-on inquiry, GLC Science empowers teachers like Ms.Dippell to cultivate classrooms bursting with confidence, curiosity, and creativity. Here, science isn’t just a subject, it’s an experience. With GLC, every lab is a launchpad for discovery. These students didn’t just learn about gravity, they discovered their own potential.

With GLC, the sky is no longer the limit- it’s just the beginning.