S5E04: Marcie Samayoa on NGSS and explicit science instruction
In this episode, I’m joined by Marcie Samayoa—science teacher, cognitive science enthusiast, and blogger of Scientists in the Making. Marcie shares the origin story behind her innovative classroom blog and explains how it grew out of a desire to make science learning more equitable, evidence-based, and joyful. We dive into some of the most persistent…
In this episode, I’m joined byMarcie Samayoa—science teacher, cognitive science enthusiast, and blogger ofScientists in the Making. Marcie shares the origin story behind her innovative classroom blog and explains how it grew out of a desire to make science learning more equitable, evidence-based, and joyful. We dive into some of the most persistent misconceptions in science education—like the idea that inquiry alone leads to deep understanding—and explore how cognitive science can help teachers design lessons that truly stick. Marcie walks us through how she translates research into daily practice, using explicit instruction in ways that honor both the spirit of NGSS and the realities of how students actually learn. She also shares powerful classroom examples where applying cognitive science principles—like spaced retrieval and opportunities to respond—led to a dramatic shift in student outcomes. Throughout the conversation, Marcie’s message is clear: every student can become a scientist with high quality explicit instruction. Lesson Example UsingTeach FAST…Listen to Progressively Incorrect on…SpotifyYouTubeApple PodcastsWordPressLooking for great education books?The podcast you’re listening to is sponsored byJohn Catt from Hachette Learningand hosted by Dr. Zach Groshell. John Catt publishes some of the best books in education, including my book,Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching. Interested in Better Instructional Coaching and Leadership?Book a demoof Steplab today and check out ourAmbassador’s Programto get trained up by me and members of the Steplab team!