Secondary Science Simplified™
Secondary Science Simplified is a podcast for high school science teachers, hosted by Rebecca Joyner from It's Not Rocket Science. Each week, Rebecca and her guests share practical, easy-to-implement strategies to help secondary science educators engage students and reduce their workload. The show focuses on helping teachers stop working overtime and spend more energy on actual teaching, while also enjoying life outside school. Listeners can find a free Classroom Reset Challenge on the It's Not Rocket Science classroom website.
Episodes
256. What to Do When Students Show Up to Class Unprepared
At this point in the year, the “new year, new you” energy has officially worn off, and students might be drifting into class a little less prepared than before. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to handle students who show up without the supplies they need by setting simple expectations, communicating them clearly, and consistently reinforcing them. I’m also sharing how to build in a little g
255. Being a Department Chair, Teaching Earth Science, and Veteran Teacher Tips With Jaime Gratton
How do you stay passionate about teaching after 24 years and multiple science preps? Veteran teacher and department chair Jaime Gratton is sharing her tricks of the trade. We’re talking about engaging students in 90-minute blocks, creating hands-on science experiences, mentoring new teachers, and building a supportive department culture. We also get into AI, classroom routines, grading, and Jamie’
254. New Year, New Boundaries: PARENTS
Parent boundaries can make a huge difference in your school year, especially when you set them early! In this final episode of my 3-week boundaries series, I’m breaking down three key areas: availability and access, respect and care, and knowing when to bring in support. We’ll talk about setting clear expectations, using proactive communication to build stronger parent relationships, and bringing
253. New Year, New Boundaries: STUDENTS
Teaching is your job, NOT your whole life, and that means setting healthy boundaries with your students, too! In week two of my New Year, New Boundaries miniseries, I'm sharing five boundaries to establish this school year around availability, respect, workload, consequences, and grading. The goal? To empower students to become more independent, hold the line in your classroom, and still have
252. New Year, New Boundaries: EMAIL
A new school year calls for new boundaries, and it’s high time we stopped letting email rule our lives. Teaching is your job, not your whole identity, and nobody should expect you to be available 24/7! In this episode, I’m kicking off a 3-week mini-series on boundaries by tackling one of the biggest struggles for teachers: constant digital access. I get personal about my own journey with becoming
251. Back to Basics: 5 Life Skills to Teach High School Students
Teaching science is about more than getting through the standards! In this episode, I’m sharing five critical life skills I want you to intentionally teach this school year. I’ll share practical ways to build these skills into what you’re already doing while helping students become more capable, confident, and resilient humans...not just successful science students!➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotroc
250. Ask Me Anything! Coworkers, Motivation, Biblical Integration, and More!
To celebrate 250 episodes of Secondary Science Simplified, I’m answering listener questions covering everything from coworker relationships and classroom organization to block schedules and student connections. I’m sharing practical strategies for balancing direct instruction and inquiry, navigating scripted curriculum, managing a season when you don’t have the time or energy to do everything, and
249. Board Points: A Simple Whole Classroom Management Strategy
I’ve mentioned Board Points on this podcast more times than I can count, but somehow I’ve never given them their own episode. Today, we’re finally fixing that! I’m sharing how I started using Board Points, why they became a game-changer for one challenging class, and exactly how I use them to build teamwork and reduce individual behavior management. I’ll walk you through my simple system, answer c
248. Last-Minute Prep Thrown on Your Plate? Here Is What to Do
Getting handed a brand new prep just days before school starts can feel like every teacher's nightmare. I've been there, and in this episode, I'm sharing five practical tips to help you tackle a last-minute course assignment without putting impossible expectations on yourself. We'll talk about how to advocate for the support you deserve, when to lean on existing curriculum inst
247. Physical Science Scope and Sequence - Why I Teach Physical Science the Way That I Do
Teaching physical science completely changed my perspective as an educator. It started out as the course I least wanted to teach, and somehow became the one I'd request if I ever returned to the classroom full-time! In this episode, I'm sharing why I fell in love with teaching physical science, the scope and sequence I used in my own classroom, and the big-picture goals that shaped every
246. Grouping and Engaging Students With Popsicle Sticks
One simple classroom tool has completely changed the way I manage my classroom, build relationships, and keep every student engaged…and it costs just a few dollars! In this episode, I'm sharing how I use popsicle sticks to create fair participation, build meaningful classroom discussions, and make sure every student feels seen. I'll walk you through how I make and use them, simple ways t
245. Connection and Consistency Over Content Coverage With Alex Crim
The right mindset can completely change your teaching experience, and Alex Crim is proof of that. In this episode, Alex shares how switching schools, teaching high school biology and AP Environmental Science, and balancing coaching with his master's program helped him discover that connection and consistency matter more than simply covering content. We also dive into practical grading hacks,
244. Sanity-Saving Systems, Self Checks, and Starting a TA Program With Katie Dupuie
Teaching gets a whole lot easier when your classroom runs on systems instead of constant reminders! In this conversation, Katie Dupuie shares the practical routines that help her manage large classes, build student independence, and stay adaptable through every challenge teaching throws her way. From self-check assignments and streamlined grading to creative chemistry instruction and launching a t
243. Creating Competition, Teaching AP, and 18 Preps With Brennan Koch of Stoich Decks
Some teachers just have a way of making you rethink how you approach your classroom, and today's guest definitely does that. With 25 years of experience in the classroom, Brennan Koch shares practical strategies for creating a culture of striving, teaching AP science, simplifying lab grading, and using games to deepen student learning. I left this conversation feeling inspired, and I think yo
242. Classroom Jobs, Teaching Chemistry and Ai-Generated Labs for Absences With Maggie H. The Caffeinated Chemist
One of my favorite parts of the year is finally here! I'm kicking off this summer's guest interview series with Maggie from The Caffeinated Chemist, and our conversation is full of practical ideas that made me wish we taught down the hall from each other. From making chemistry more visual to creating a classroom that practically runs itself, Maggie shares practical strategies for teachin
241. Simplified Grading Strategy: Major vs. Minor Grades
A complicated gradebook can quickly create more work, more confusion, and more stress than it needs to. In this episode, I'm sharing the grading system I used for years to simplify grading, accurately reflect student learning, and make communication with students and parents much clearer. I'll walk you through how I organized and weighted my gradebook, managed grades efficiently, and han
240. How to Time Block Your Work Week
Do you feel like your planning period disappears before you've accomplished anything? In this episode, I share exactly how I would structure a 40-hour teacher workweek to stay productive, reduce overwhelm, and avoid bringing work home. You'll learn how a time audit can reveal where your hours are really going, plus practical strategies for time-blocking, batching grading and lesson prep,
239. No One Cares About Your Class: What to Do When Students Only Care About Their Dual Credit Courses and Not Yours
How do you make your class matter when students are far more invested in their dual credit courses? In this episode, I share why student apathy isn't necessarily a reflection of your teaching and how shifting your expectations can reduce frustration for everyone. We’ll talk about creating a classroom students want to be in, respecting their competing priorities, maintaining accountability wit
238. Department Chairs: How to Lead Your Team Well
Department chairs are carrying far more than a title and a tiny stipend! In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to lead your science department well without burning yourself out. I’m talking about advocating for teachers, communicating with admin, running productive meetings, organizing shared resources, and supporting new science teachers in ways that actually make a difference!If you’re a d
237. End of Year Reflection - How to Know What Needs to Change
You made it to summer… or you’re so close you can taste it! In this end of year reflection episode, I’m sharing how to look back on your school year without drowning in guilt or taking responsibility for things that weren’t yours to carry. We’re talking about meaningful goals, honest feedback, burnout, boundaries, and how your current life season impacts the way you view your year. I’m also walkin
236. Teaching AP Science for the First Time? 6 Tips for Success
If you are listening to this episode, I’m guessing you just found out you’ll be teaching AP Science for the very first time… and you’re probably equal parts excited and equal parts overwhelmed. I’ve been there! In this episode, I’m sharing the six biggest tips I wish someone had handed me before stepping into my first AP classroom, from navigating the overwhelm and letting go of perfectionism to c
235. Advocating for Yourself With Admin
As the school year wraps up and end-of-year meetings approach, NOW is the moment to advocate for yourself with your admin. Yes, really! In this episode, I’m sharing why your voice matters right now as a secondary science teacher, how to clearly communicate your capacity, boundaries, and needs, and practical scripts for handling tough conversations about added responsibilities. You’ll also learn ho
234. My Biggest Regrets From My Time in the Classroom
Recently, I was asked a question that stopped me in my tracks: What’s one thing you wish you’d done differently in the classroom? My first answer came fast...I thought too much of myself and carried the weight of everything on my shoulders. But the more I thought about the question, the more I realized there were several things I would do differently! In this episode, I’m sharing four regrets from
233. How to Keep Up With Lesson Planning
Why does it feel like I start every week organized, then somehow end it with a mile-long to-do list and lesson plans that still need fixing? In this episode, I’m answering a listener’s relatable question with six practical strategies that helped me stay ahead of planning in the classroom. We’re talking batch planning, overplanning, classroom routines, pacing with confidence, protecting your planni
232. Chemistry Scope and Sequence: How and Why I Teach Chemistry the Way That I Do
Chemistry can be one of the most rewarding courses to teach, and in this episode I’m sharing why! I walk you through the scope and sequence I use in my yearlong chemistry curriculum, how I break down major topics so students build confidence step by step, and why I prioritize depth over rushing through standards. We’ll also cover the big themes that connect chemistry all year long, plus what makes
231. Teaching on an Island: What to Do When Parents and Admin Won’t Help
Caring deeply about your students can feel exhausting when you’re the only one showing up! In this episode, I share how to support a student when admin and parents aren’t involved, without taking on everything yourself. You’ll learn how to do your due diligence through consistent communication, shift your perspective with empathy, and bring in additional support when needed. Most importantly, it’s
230. How to Manage Test Retakes
It’s been awhile since we’ve tackled a hot-button topic, so we’re going there today: test retakes. I’m breaking down the real pros and cons, sharing how I decide when retakes are actually necessary, and how to structure them in a way that supports mastery without adding more to your plate. It all comes down to clear expectations, strong boundaries, and putting responsibility back on students. Plus
229. Balancing Unrealistic Admin Expectations
I get asked all the time if I’ll ever go back to teaching full time, and honestly… we’ll see. I miss teaching, but I don't miss the challenge of balancing admin expectations with what’s actually realistic in the classroom! In this episode, I’m sharing what to do when those expectations start to feel overwhelming, from getting perspective and finding support to having productive conversations
228. The Lowdown on Labs: Finding, Funding, Prepping, Executing, and Assessing Labs
Labs can easily become one of the most overwhelming parts of teaching science, so in this episode, I’m breaking down how to find, fund, prep, run, and assess labs in a way that’s actually sustainable. I share simple strategies for managing materials, planning for multiple classes, keeping labs purposeful (not just checking a box), and making them work for all students. Plus, we’re simplifying grad
227. A Quarter 4 Pep Talk
The final stretch of the school year can feel heavy, especially if you’re not sure the year turned out the way you hoped. In this episode, I offer a Quarter 4 pep talk and a mindset shift to help you finish strong. I talk about redefining what success looks like, embracing seasons of survival when needed, and focusing on small moments that still make a BIG impact with students. I also give you per
226. What to Do When You’ve Lost Your Spark in Teaching
Spring might bring renewed energy, but sometimes the spark for teaching is still missing. In this episode, I share what to do when you’ve lost your passion for teaching or feel the weight of teacher burnout. I walk through four steps I call the 4 Rs: remember, reflect, reinforce, and reconsider to help you identify what’s draining your energy, reconnect with what brings you joy, and rebuild teache
225. What to Do When Your Class Won’t Talk With You
You may have read the title of this episode and thought, “Wow, I cannot relate. My problem is getting my students to quiet down!” But if you’re facing a roomful of crickets, this one’s for you. I share my experience with nearly-silent classes and the five strategies I use to get even the quietest students talking. We’ll also talk about building trust through real relationships, shifting classroom
224. Keeping Students’ Attention Engaged - Without Killing Yourself to Do It
“I’m pouring everything I have into keeping my students engaged… and I’m completely drained, but nothing is changing.” If that thought has been running through your head, you are not alone. In this episode, I challenge the belief that student disengagement is a personal failure and walk you through three essential mindset shifts before sharing six practical, low-energy strategies you can implement
223. What to Do When Students Simply Won’t Do Their Work
When students flat-out refuse to work, it can feel impossible to stay in control. In this episode, I tackle what you can actually do when encouragement isn’t enough and resistance takes over. Instead of focusing on controlling students, I share the three levers you can control (clear expectations, consistent reinforcement, and meaningful follow-through), plus how to reset your classroom culture wh
222. What to Do With Fast Finishers - Managing Different Students’ Paces
Fast finishers can throw your whole class off pace when you’re already feeling behind. In this episode, I share how to manage fast finishers during notes, practice, labs, projects, and tests without adding more to your plate. I explain why differentiating notes is worth the effort, how to create a “no idle hands” classroom culture, and simple ways to give early finishers meaningful work. These are
221. Pacing Panic - What to Do When You Are So Far Behind Where You Thought You’d Be
Pacing panic hits hard this time of year, and if you’re feeling behind (again), this episode is for you. I revisit the ever-relevant issue of pacing, helping you assess whether you’re truly behind or just holding yourself to unrealistic expectations. We look at the real math behind instructional time, the role of grace for both you and your students, and practical strategies like time audits, prio
220. Biology Scope and Sequence: How and Why I Teach Biology the Way That I Do
Biology has always been my first love, and this episode felt like the perfect moment to come back to it! In this episode, I share the thinking behind my biology scope and sequence, why order matters so much, and the structures, experiences, and connections students need to truly understand biology. I also dig into my biggest sequencing hot takes and give an inside look at what makes my It’s Not Ro
219. Study Guides for High School Science Classes
Something I realized early in my teaching career is that most students have absolutely no clue how to prepare for tests! That's why I'm diving into how intentional study guides can actually teach students how to study, not just what to study. I walk through my system for planning study guides alongside units, lessons, and assessments so they serve as clear roadmaps from day one (not last
218. 3 Things to Stop Doing This Semester
I’ve sat through a lot of professional development over the years, and I don’t remember a single one that ever took something off my plate - it was always more! That’s why this episode exists: to simplify your workload by doing less of what isn’t actually serving you or your students. I share three things to consider stopping for a semester and explain why habits that feel productive often create
217. How to Regain Control Mid-Year: Resetting Your Classroom Management
Mid-year is when the cracks start to show - expectations fade, routines get sloppy, and classroom management feels heavier than it should. In this episode, I share why you can reset classroom management at any point in the year and walk you through the mindset shift, conversations, and practical steps that make a mid-year reset actually work. We’ll talk about identifying your biggest classroom pai
216. Simple Goal Setting for the New Semester
The “new year, fresh start” energy feels exciting, but can also be overwhelming! This episode cuts through the noise with a refreshingly simple approach to goal setting. Instead of complicated systems, you’ll focus on just two questions: what you want to do more of this year and what you want to do less of, both personally and in your science classroom. We’ll talk about prioritizing yourself, iden
215. A Systematic and Scientific Approach to Parent Communication With Guest Amanda Farrar
It's time to hear the top episode of 2025, and it’s easy to see why this was a crowd favorite! I’m joined by high school chemistry and physics teacher Amanda Farrar, who shares her system for parent communication. She uses an intentional, data-driven approach that builds trust, lowers stress, and keeps the focus on student growth. From practical email scripts and real classroom stories to han
214. Practical Scientific Inquiry Teaching Strategies
Our second most-listened-to episode of 2025 dives into inquiry-based teaching and why it’s essential, even when students push back. I break inquiry down into practical, classroom-ready strategies, explain why students struggle if they’ve only experienced passive “sit and get” learning, and share ways to make inquiry part of your classroom culture. Plus, I give my thoughts on the 5E model, three si
213. Everything You Need to Know About Teaching AP Biology With Tiffany of AP Bio Penguins
As we continue our end-of-year countdown, week three highlights one of 2025’s top episodes featuring Tiffany of AP Bio Penguins, an AP Biology teacher with 13 years of experience and a passion for creating free, high-impact review resources. In this conversation, Tiffany shares how her popular account began, her commitment to equity and access in AP prep, and practical strategies for simplifying l
212. 6 Preps, EOC Review, Biology and Work/Life Balance With Guest Macee Huseman
In December, we’re airing the top five most-played episodes of the year - and this conversation with Macee Huseman easily earned its spot! As a one-woman science department juggling six preps and three kids at home, Macee balances a heavy workload while still staying sane. We dig into everything from engaging students across multiple science subjects to using labs, routines, and even candy to spar
211. 5 Differentiation Tips for High Achievers in Your High School Science Classroom
December is here, and we’re kicking off the month by bringing back your most-loved, most-listened-to episodes of Secondary Science Simplified to make the holiday chaos feel a little lighter! This week’s replay dives into practical, high-impact ways to differentiate for high achievers - without busywork or burnout. You’ll learn how to craft more challenging assessments, build a classroom culture th
210. 4 Ways AI Can Support You in Your Secondary Classroom
AI may be getting better every day, but it’s still not coming for my job anytime soon - because, well…it struggles with science! While it can’t write a reliable test or answer key, it can make day-to-day teaching easier in some surprisingly helpful ways. In this episode, I’m sharing four new strategies for using AI alongside the It’s Not Rocket Science® curriculum (or any curriculum you’re working
209. Anatomy Scope and Sequence: How and Why I Teach Anatomy the Way That I Do
Anatomy holds a special place in my heart, and in this episode, I share how I teach it and why I designed the It’s Not Rocket Science® Anatomy curriculum the way I did. I focus on sparking curiosity, weaving in three big themes, and prioritizing breadth over depth (hot take!). You’ll hear how this hands-on, student-centered curriculum engages learners with discovery stations, model-building, and r
208. 5 Tips for How to Lesson Plan While Managing Constant Disruptions
Are constant disruptions messing up your perfectly planned weeks? You’re not alone! When I taught at small schools in particular, it often felt like every week held a new disruption. Between spirit weeks, fire drills, and field trips, I sometimes wondered if I’d ever get a “normal” week with my students! In this episode, I'm sharing five practical tips for lesson planning that will keep learn
207. Dealing With Combative Parents - 6 Tips and 2 Warnings
No matter how far we are into the school year, those dreaded surprise parent emails can still hit your inbox, often full of big emotions and even bigger accusations. In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most challenging parts of teaching: handling combative parents with confidence and professionalism. I’m sharing six practical strategies (plus two important warnings) to help you stay calm,
206. PRIME TIMES® - Everything You Need to Know
Today’s the day! I’m finally doing a deep dive into my number one classroom procedure: PRIME TIMES®. I share the origin story, why they’re essential for classroom management and formative assessment, and practical strategies for making them work in any secondary science classroom. You’ll learn how to overcome common challenges like missing papers, time limits, absences, and accommodations, plus ti
205. A Cell Phone Policy for High School Students
Cell phone policies are one of the most debated topics for secondary teachers, and for good reason! They’re tough to get right. In this episode, I’m sharing my honest experiences with different approaches, what’s worked (and what’s totally failed), and the key factors to consider before setting your own rules. We’ll talk about how your personality, classroom values, and admin support all play a ro
204. Serving English Learners in Your Science Classroom With Risa Woods of Every Teacher
Once the school year is in full swing, meeting every learner’s needs can feel impossible, especially when it comes to supporting English learners. In this episode, I sit down with Risa Woods from Every Teacher for a conversation that’s equal parts practical and encouraging. Together, we dig into common misconceptions about who English learners are, why translation isn’t always the answer, and how
203. Who Makes up the Deficit? How to Respond When Students Are Behind
One of the toughest realities for teachers is realizing that your students are already behind before the year even begins. That’s exactly what we’re tackling in this episode. Last week, we talked about how to handle things when students fail a test at the end of a unit, but this week, I’m flipping the script (thanks to another great listener question!) and asking: what do you do when you realize t
202. What to Do When Your Students Fail the Test
Raise your hand if you've been called “the mean teacher” for holding firm on test policies! In this episode, we dive into what to do when students fail a test, from deciding on retakes or corrections to analyzing trends in student performance and reteaching where needed. You’ll hear practical tips for breaking down assessments by concept, setting up your gradebook to support real learning, an
201. AI Literacy for Science Teachers With Guest Amanda Bickerstaff of AI for Education
AI is everywhere right now, and if you’ve been feeling both curious and overwhelmed, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, a former high school biology teacher and co-founder of AI for Education, for a conversation about AI in the classroom. We explore why AI literacy is becoming a core skill for both teachers and students, how it’s reshaping traditional assignments
200. Ask Me Anything! Going Over Work, NGSS, Labs, and MORE!
Can you believe it?! We’ve officially hit the 200th episode of Secondary Science Simplified AND crossed over 200,000 listens — what a milestone! I’m so grateful for every teacher who tunes in and makes this community so special. To celebrate, I’m bringing back one of my favorite formats: an “Ask Me Anything” episode where I answer your top questions about classroom culture, student engagement, mea
199. How to Not Take Work Home (In Your Head, or in Reality) This School Year
Work-life balance…it’s the unicorn we’re all chasing, isn’t it? In this episode, I’m sharing the practical strategies and mindset shifts that have helped me finally keep work at work. From being ruthless about what you grade, setting up overflow days, and maximizing your planning period, to outsourcing tasks and shifting classroom culture, you’ll walk away with realistic habits to lighten your loa
198. The Most Important Thing You Need to Hear This School Year
It’s September, which means it’s time for your annual pep talk, teacher friend! In this episode, I’m sharing the one message every secondary science teacher needs to hear as the school year kicks off. We’ll talk about the unique challenges you face, why boundaries and clarity matter, and how to model humanity and humility in your classroom. Plus, I’ll walk you through a simple exercise to brain du
197. Motivating the Unmotivated - 4 Practical Tips to Help Students Care
August is wild because some of you are squeezing out those last drops of summer, while others are already knee-deep in grading. Wherever you are on that back-to-school spectrum, one thing is for sure: at some point this year, you’ll be staring down an unmotivated student (or ten!). In this episode, I’m sharing four practical tips to boost engagement, starting with a mindset check to make sure you’
196. Grading Game Changers: 6 Ways to Grade Differently This School Year
Grading doesn’t have to take over your nights and weekends! In this episode, I’m sharing six practical grading game changers that helped me simplify my workload without lowering my standards. You’ll learn how to define your grading philosophy, reduce what you collect, give meaningful feedback faster, and keep students engaged, even when you're not grading everything. Plus, I’m breaking down h
195. A Simple and Effective Process for Parent Communication With Guest Mandy Farrar
Confession time: I’ve been gatekeeping this conversation with Mandy Farrar because it’s that perfect for the start of the school year. Mandy, a high school chemistry and physics teacher, shares her simple yet highly effective system for parent communication, built from her own early struggles and refined into a clear, repeatable process. From starting the year with positive outreach to using email
194. The Importance of Inquiry-Based Learning - And How to Implement It Practically
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to breathe new energy into your classroom, and one of the most powerful ways to do that is through inquiry-based learning. In this episode, I’m sharing why inquiry matters, why students often push back against it, and how you can scaffold it to feel less intimidating for everyone. I’ll break down what inquiry actually means, offer my honest take on the 5E
193. First Year Teacher Reflections With Cienna Domke
What if you could hit pause after your first year of teaching and really process what just happened? That’s exactly what we’re doing in this episode with Cienna Domke. Cienna just wrapped up her first year teaching high school biology and chemistry in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and y’all—she brought the honesty, humility, and wisdom that only comes from walking through the fire and making it to t
192. Teaching Biology, Managing 6 Preps, and EOC Review with Macee Huseman
What would you do if you were the entire science department at your school? That’s the reality for my guest, Macee Huseman, a powerhouse high school science teacher from Texas who juggles six preps, engaging labs, and family life with incredible grace. In this episode, Macee shares her best tips for staying organized, keeping students engaged, and finding balance in a demanding teaching role. From
191. Engaging Students, Serving ELLs, and Teaching Earth Science With Becca of Science Lessons That Rock
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to make earth science engaging and hands-on, this episode is for you! I’m joined by Becca from Science Lessons That Rock, a veteran teacher with over 15 years of experience and a passion for turning abstract concepts into meaningful, accessible learning experiences. Becca shares creative ways to teach everything from planetary distances to landforms using sim
190. Student Mastery, Switching Schools, and Teaching Chemistry with Heather Bonanno
Have you ever met a teacher who just gets it—who knows how to challenge students, meet them where they are, and do it all with purpose and empathy? That’s exactly who you’ll hear from in this episode. I chat with Heather Bonanno, a high school chemistry teacher from Pennsylvania who recently returned to the classroom after a five-year break.Heather shares how she navigates 40-minute class periods,
189. True Life: I Grade Everything and Because of It, I Have No Life
If grading has taken over your life, this final episode in the True Life Teacher Confession series is here to help. I’m unpacking the hidden costs of grading everything, challenging the belief that every assignment needs a grade, and sharing mindset shifts and practical strategies to help you reclaim your time. From setting clear grading boundaries to building a classroom culture where students st
188. True Life: I Teach a Course With a High-Stakes Test and Don’t Care About It
“Help! I teach a course with a high-stakes test that I do not care about at all, but I need to care about it. How can I make myself care?” If you've ever felt this way, this episode is for you. In this True Life: Teacher Confessions episode, I'm sharing what to do when you're stuck teaching a test-heavy course but feel totally unmotivated by the exam itself. I’ll give you permission
187. True Life: I’m Drowning
Are you juggling multiple preps across several grade levels, trying to run labs every week, and still show up for your family? Feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic admin expectations and a lack of student accountability? If it all feels like too much, that’s because it is too much. In this "true life" episode, I’m talking about what it really means to teach inside a broken system, why so m
186. True Life: I Am a Science Teacher Who Hates Labs
Do you find yourself absolutely dreading lab days? If so, you’re in good company. I’m kicking off a new series of Teacher True Life Confessions, and today’s episode is inspired by several of you who were brave enough to admit that you HATE lab days. I’m sharing why labs feel so overwhelming and practical ways to make them less chaotic and more effective. You’ll learn how to select labs for quality
185. When Is Preparation Worth It, and When Is It a Pipe Dream?
Feeling torn between getting ahead on lesson plans and fully embracing summer break? That’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode. Inspired by a thoughtful listener question, I’m sharing a realistic and flexible approach to summer planning for teachers that helps you make progress and prioritize rest. You’ll hear tips for setting intentional goals, deciding when it’s actually worth planni
184. End the Year Organized: Your Methods for Management
In this final episode of the “End Your Year Organized” series, we’re wrapping up by reflecting on the classroom management methods you used this year. I’m walking you through six simple but powerful reflection questions to help you evaluate what worked, what didn’t, and how to set yourself up for a smoother classroom experience next year. We’ll look at the difference between whole-class and indivi
183. End the Year Organized: Your Classroom
Feeling buried in classroom clutter? Let’s fix that, before summer break hits! Last week, we talked all about organizing your digital and paper teaching resources so you’re not digging through chaos next school year. This week, we’re shifting the focus to classroom organization at the end of the school year—because let’s be real, your physical space needs a reset just as much as your files do.Usin
182. End the Year Organized: Your Resources
Feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of digital files, paper stacks, and half-used lab materials? In this kickoff episode of the “End the Year Organized” series, I’m sharing practical strategies to help you wrap up the school year with intention and clarity. From organizing your digital and paper resources to maintaining your systems and auditing what needs improvement, you’ll get a high-level overvi
181. What to Do When Your Job Feels Stale (And Maybe Even Boring)
Teaching can feel like driving on autopilot - same route, same scenery, same old routine. So what happens when that journey starts to feel monotonous and uninspiring? In today’s conversation, I dive deep into a feeling that every teacher experiences at some point: boredom. Whether you're an AP Biology teacher counting down to exam day or a Earth Science instructor trudging through yet another
180. Unpacking the NGSS With Christina Agurcia of Make Them Think
Over the past few episodes, we’ve been diving into all things NGSS, and it’s time to wrap up the series with someone who’s not only in the classroom but has been using the NGSS for the last decade! The Next Generation Science Standards are all about helping our students think and act like real scientists, and in this episode, I’m joined by Christina Agurcia of Make Them Think to break down how to
179. Unpacking the NGSS: Phenomena and Storylines
Ever feel like your students are just going through the motions - memorizing facts without really connecting to what they're learning? I think we can all agree that we want our students to be able to apply their learning to real world context! That’s why I’m diving into two of my absolute favorite NGSS concepts in this episode: phenomena and storylines.I’ll explain the different types of phen
178. Unpacking the NGSS: SEPs and CCCs
In part two of our NGSS series, we’re diving into its three-dimensional nature —specifically, SEPs (Science and Engineering Practices) and CCCs (Crosscutting Concepts). You’ll hear my take on what they are and how you can practically teach them. Plus, I’ll share plenty of ideas for assessing them beyond traditional tests!➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode178Resources M
177. Unpacking the NGSS: What High School Science Teachers Need to Know
Navigating the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, I break down the three pillars of NGSS as I see them. I also share what I love about NGSS, where I think it falls short, and practical strategies to help you implement it in a way that works for you and your students. Whether you’re new to NGSS or looking to refine your approa
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