Summary
Connect Science provides a lesson-based approach to SEL with academic integration with science. It includes a 4th Grade curriculum that can be adjusted to be appropriate for 3rd and 5th graders and demonstrated evidence of effectiveness at the 4th grade level.
Strategies supporting educational equity (CASEL)
Connect Science offers strategies for customizing for context and youth action projects. This includes strategies throughout teacher manuals for customizing lessons to speak to the needs of the local community. Additionally, the entire program is organized around student-driven service learning projects that address local community needs.
Implementation
Below are key implementation details for this program. These specifications help determine if the program is a good fit for your school or organization.
Grade(s)
Elementary (K-5)
Setting
Classroom
Language
English
Cost
Pricing available through provider
# Lessons
30+
Program Design
Tier 1 (Universal)
Technology Requirements
Unspecified
Staffing Requirements
No additional staffing required
Professional Development
On-site, Virtual, Offsite
Outcomes
Improved SEL skills and attitudes
Reduced Emotional Distress
Improved Identity Development/ Agency
Improved Academic Performance
Reduced Problem Behavior
Improved School Climate
Improved School Connectedness
Improved Prosocial Behavior
Improved Teaching Practices
Improved SEL Skills and Attitude
Evidence of Effectiveness
Results from a randomized controlled trial evaluation conducted in the 2017-2018 academic year (published in 2021) supported the effectiveness of the Connect Science for elementary students. This evaluation included 868 grade 4 students enrolled in schools in the U.S. Southeast (37% Black, 34% white, 24% Hispanic; 50% of the student body at participating schools was eligible for SNAP and or TANF benefits). This evaluation found that students receiving instruction using the Connect Science Program demonstrated significantly higher post-test science achievement and student-reported civic engagement, specifically energy attitudes and behaviors, than the students in the control group.
Published Studies
Refer to the provided CASEL for the most up-to-date published studies.
Rimm-Kaufman, S. E., Merritt, E. G., Lapan, C., DeCoster, J., Hunt, A., & Bowers, N. (2021). Can service-learning boost science achievement, civic engagement, and social skills? A randomized controlled trial of Connect Science. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 74, Article ID 101236.