5 Strategies for Teaching the New Texas Science Standards
The 2024–2025 school year introduces significant changes for Texas science educators with the full implementation of the revised Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). These new standards emphasize critical thinking, cross-disciplinary connections, and recurring themes like systems, energy, and interdependence. While these changes are designed to prepare students for college and career success, many teachers are finding the transition challenging.
At RPA TREKs, we specialize in professional development (PD) that equips educators with the skills, tools, and confidence needed to master these new standards. Based on our extensive experience working with science educators, we’ve identified five key strategies for successfully teaching the new Texas science standards:
1. Deepen Understanding of the New TEKS
Teaching the new science standards requires a thorough understanding of their structure and intent. The revised TEKS place greater emphasis on recurring themes and higher-order thinking, requiring educators to shift from rote memorization to inquiry-based and application-focused instruction.
Our Solution: RPA TREKs’ PD workshops break down the TEKS into actionable components, helping educators:
Identify key shifts in standards, content and expectations.
Develop lesson plans that integrate recurring themes and concepts like systems and interdependence.
Understand how to scaffold concepts for different grade levels.
By building a solid foundation of TEKS knowledge, teachers can confidently plan and deliver effective science instruction.
2. Incorporate Inquiry-Based Learning
Inquiry-based learning is central to the revised TEKS. Students are expected to explore scientific concepts through experimentation, critical questioning, and problem-solving.
Our Solution: Our hands-on training sessions model inquiry-based teaching strategies, demonstrating how to:
Design experiments and investigations aligned with TEKS objectives.
Facilitate student-led exploration while maintaining alignment with learning goals.
Use questioning techniques to deepen student understanding.
This approach not only prepares students for STAAR but also fosters a lifelong love of science.
3. Address Curriculum Gaps with Supplemental Resources
Many educators report that the newly adopted science curricula fall short in addressing all aspects of the revised TEKS. Supplemental resources can bridge these gaps and ensure students are fully prepared for STAAR and beyond.
Our Solution: We’ve developed TREKs for STAAR Readiness, a set of supplemental materials designed to:
Reinforce key themes and concepts in the TEKS.
Provide STAAR-aligned practice questions and activities.
Support differentiated instruction for diverse student needs.
These resources empower teachers to go beyond the textbook and deliver comprehensive, engaging lessons.
TREKs for STAAR Readiness
4. Use Data to Drive Instruction
The revised TEKS and STAAR assessments emphasize critical thinking and application, making it essential to monitor student progress and identify areas for improvement.
Our Solution: Through our professional development programs, we help educators:
Analyze assessment data to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses.
Develop targeted interventions to address learning gaps.
Create formative assessments that align with the TEKS and prepare students for STAAR.
Using data-driven strategies ensures that instruction is personalized and effective.
5. Build Confidence Through Ongoing Professional Development
Transitioning to the new TEKS is a journey, not a one-time event. Teachers need continuous support to refine their instructional practices and stay updated on best practices.
Our Solution: RPA TREKs offers customized, ongoing PD programs that:
Provide coaching and mentoring for individual educators and teams.
Address specific challenges unique to each district or campus.
Deliver practical, classroom-tested strategies that educators can implement immediately.
Our focus on sustained professional growth ensures that teachers feel confident and capable in implementing the new standards.
Empowering Educators, Inspiring Students
The new Texas science standards present both challenges and opportunities for educators. With the right strategies and support, teachers can turn these challenges into successes, fostering deeper student understanding and higher achievement.
At RPA TREKs, we are committed to helping educators navigate these changes with confidence. Our professional development programs and supplemental resources are designed to empower teachers, inspire students, and drive meaningful results. Let’s work together to make the transition to the new TEKS a success for your school or district.
Contact us today to learn more about our professional development services and how we can support your journey to TEKS mastery.