Cereal City Science

by Battle Creek Area Mathematics and Science Center

ScienceGrades K–5

About This Curriculum

Cereal City Science is a phenomenon-based, K-8 NGSS-aligned science curriculum designed with the 5E Learning Cycle that integrates science, mathematics, and literacy through an interdisciplinary approach. The program provides three-dimensional science instruction across all four domains of science proficiency (physical science, earth science, life science, and engineering).

What makes it unique: Phenomenon-based, three-dimensional learning approach integrated with multi-literacy practices; includes comprehensive professional development, materials kits, and teacher guides; combines classroom instruction with optional digital online platform.

Cereal City Science: Phenomenon-Based NGSS-Aligned K-5 Curriculum

Cereal City Science is a phenomenon-based K-5 science curriculum that uses the 5E Learning Cycle to integrate three-dimensional NGSS instruction across physical science, earth science, life science, and engineering. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary connections with mathematics and literacy through inquiry-based learning.

Best for

Teachers comfortable with inquiry-based instruction who want a phenomenon-driven approach to K-5 science but may need to supplement with additional content knowledge and vocabulary instruction

Evaluation Criteria

2 concerns · 1 neutral · 4 insufficient evidence

Knowledge RichConcern

The curriculum's focus on phenomenon-based learning may prioritize inquiry over systematic content knowledge building.

EdReports found the curriculum only partially meets expectations for NGSS alignment, suggesting gaps in comprehensive content coverage

Direct InstructionConcern

The curriculum appears to prioritize inquiry-based learning over explicit instruction methods.

Described as inquiry-based and phenomenon-based with 5E Learning Cycle, with no mention of direct instruction components

Ngss AlignmentNeutral

The curriculum shows partial NGSS alignment but has notable gaps in meeting three-dimensional learning expectations.

EdReports rated the curriculum as 'Partially Meets Expectations' for both NGSS alignment and coherence/scope

Teacher TrainingInsufficient Evidence

Teacher support materials and professional development components are not documented.

No information provided about teacher guides, training materials, or professional development offerings

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of systematic retrieval practice or spaced review components.

Curriculum description and EdReports review do not mention assessment practices or review strategies

Hands On IntegrationInsufficient Evidence

The 5E Learning Cycle model likely incorporates hands-on activities, but integration with explicit instruction is unclear.

Curriculum description emphasizes phenomenon-based and inquiry-based approaches without mentioning direct instruction components

Scientific VocabularyInsufficient Evidence

Vocabulary instruction approach cannot be determined from available information.

No specific evidence about vocabulary instruction methods or explicit terminology teaching

Sources: edreports.org

Review Sources

edreports

EdReports Panel

Gateway 1 Alignment:Partially Meets Expectations
Gateway 2 Alignment:Partially Meets Expectations
Key Facts
GradesGrades K–5
SubjectScience
PedagogyInquiry Based
Faith-BasedNo
FormatDigital + Physical
PricingCustom pricing; contact for quotes. Pilot programs available (6-week curriculum review or 6-12 week in-classroom evaluation). Training and ongoing support available. Purchase order required; credit cards not accepted.

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: edreports, homeschoolcom