When you're just getting your STEM program off the ground, there are typically three main ways that teachers approach building or adopting their curriculum. It can feel like a lot of options, but each path has its own benefits. Let's take a quick look at the three most common approaches:
1
Single Lessons
Ideal for teachers creating your own program from scratch.
2
Teacher Curated Curriculum
Provides STEM Lessons for the whole year. (commonly used by first year teachers)
3
National Curriculum
Created by large companies and district-backed. (higher cost)
Single Lessons
Teacher-Created
Lessons designed by educators for immediate classroom implementation
Quick Access
Simple downloads or video walkthroughs ready to use tomorrow
Acknowledgement
Always linked straight to the source and creators.
Diverse Formats
From printable STEM challenges to demonstration videos on YouTube
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
Teacher-Curated Curriculum
Complete Learning Packages
Comprehensive curriculum bundles and multi-lesson units developed by experienced educators for thorough subject coverage
Professional Quality
Materials similar to those found on Teachers Pay Teachers, offering classroom-tested resources with polished presentation
Purchase Options
Most include convenient purchase links or direct access pathways, making acquisition straightforward for teachers and schools. These curriculums are usually much more affordable than national curricula.
Popular Teacher-Recommended Curricula
Explore these outstanding curriculum resources created by respected educators:
Naomi Meredith
Offering innovative STEM and project-based learning materials that engage students through hands-on experiences. Visit Naomi's Curriculum
Carly and Adam
Specializing in collaborative learning approaches with ready-to-implement classroom materials for multiple subjects. Explore Carly and Adam's Resources
Miss Tech Queen
Technology-focused curriculum that seamlessly integrates digital literacy with core subject teaching. Discover Miss Tech Queen's Materials
These educator-created curricula exemplify the high-quality resources available to enhance your teaching practice and save valuable planning time.
National Curriculum
Research-Backed
Evidence-based programs validated through extensive educational research
Widely Adopted
Used by school districts nationwide as trusted educational foundations
Comprehensive
Complete boxed or web-based curricula covering entire academic years
Standards-Aligned
Fully aligned with frameworks like Next Generation Science Standards
Purchase Options
Usually endorsed or required by schools and districts. Costs can be more substantial than teacher created resources.

Recommended National Curricula in Use

Amplify Science Project-based program combining digital and print resources with strong NGSS alignment and interactive simulations FOSS Science Hands-on, kit-based curriculum used in K-8 classrooms nationwide, featuring materials for physical experiments and observations Mystery Science Engaging elementary-focused program with captivating videos, ready-to-use activities, and minimal prep requirements Eureka Math Comprehensive mathematics curriculum known for coherent progression and deep conceptual understanding

Comparing Lesson Categories
This comparison highlights the key differences between each lesson category, helping you choose the right resource based on your budget, time constraints, and educational goals.
Get Started: Choosing What Fits Your Needs
When to choose free single lessons
Ideal when "modgpoging" your own program
Easily integrate into your existing curriculum or with lessons of your own.
Ideal for addressing specific skills
Filling gaps in your existing curriculum
Quick activity for tomorrow
Perfect for trying new teaching approaches
When to invest in teacher-curated bundles
Comprehensive Units
Fully planned comprehensive units for the entire school year. Ideal for first year teachers.
Consistent Materials
Well-organized and consistent materials leaving you with more time to establish classroom routines.
Customization
Allowing customization to classroom and program needs.
When to adopt national curricula
Research-backed
Choose these when seeking research-backed, standards-aligned materials that provide consistent quality throughout the year.
Ideal for Schoolwide or District Implementation
Ideal for schoolwide or district implementation to ensure educational continuity.
Assessment considerations
Evaluate Students' Needs
Assess your students' requirements to tailor your approach.
Plan Time Availability
Consider your planning time to efficiently manage your tasks.
Budget Constraints
Keep in mind your budget limitations when making decisions.