183. End the Year Organized: Your Classroom

Secondary Science Simplified™

#Science #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Rebecca Joyner, High School Science Teacher #High School Science Teachers #Rebecca Joyner #High School Science #Secondary Science #Chemistry #Biology #And EarthSciences #Productivity #Routines #Lesson Plan

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Legendary actor and mental health advocate Glenn Close is on a quest to change how we think about mental health, starting with her decision to speak out about her own family's struggles — a brave choice considering the stigma that pervades the topic. This week, we're revisiting this sweeping conversation with TEDWomen curator Pat Mitchell, where Close shares the inspiration behind the advocacy group she founded to combat the crisis, underscoring the transformative power of community and the critical need for comprehensive mental health care systems. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

20 days ago 22:47

MP3•Episode home

Using a simple four-step system inspired by The Home Edit—edit, categorize, contain, and maintain—I’ll walk you through how to declutter your classroom starting with your teacher desk and working outward to key areas like the front of the room, filing cabinets, storage cabinets, and closets.

Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode183

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186 episodes

183. End the Year Organized: Your Classroom

Secondary Science Simplified™

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published 20 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode183

Resources Mentioned:

Related Episodes and Blog Posts:

186 episodes

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Secondary Science Simplified™

1
185. When Is Preparation Worth It, and When Is It a Pipe Dream? 29:51

6 days ago29:51

29:51

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 planning ahead, and how to give yourself permission to recharge—without the guilt. Whether you’re a planner, a napper, or a little of both, this episode will help you find your summer balance! ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode185 Resources Mentioned: INRS Complete Units Labs When Limited Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Take the Free Labs When Limited virtual PD course Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 80, Strategizing Your Sequence: Curriculum Design Part 1 Episode 182, End the Year Organized: Your Resources Episode 183, End the Year Organized: Your Classroom Episode 184, End the Year Organized: Your Management…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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184. End the Year Organized: Your Methods for Management 16:05

13 days ago16:05

16:05

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 individual behavior challenges, and I’ll share tips for improving routines, building stronger relationships, and being more intentional with your approach. Thinking through your classroom management methods now will make a big difference for your future self! Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode184 Resources Mentioned: Classroom Management Spotify Playlist Core Values Mini-Course Relationships Mini-Course Culture Mini-Course Secondary Science Simplified Virtual PD Bundle Subscribe on YouTube Follow me on TpT (and leave a review to score credits!) Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Take the Free Labs When Limited virtual PD course Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 35, Competency, Classroom Management, Teaching Chemistry, and MORE with Guest Zach Matson Episode 41, 4 Practical Tips for Building Relationships with Your High School Students Episode 134, Prioritizing Relationships Over Being Right Episode 182, End the Year Organized: Your Resources Episode 183, End the Year Organized: Your Classroom…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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183. End the Year Organized: Your Classroom 22:47

20 days ago22:47

22:47

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. Using a simple four-step system inspired by The Home Edit—edit, categorize, contain, and maintain—I’ll walk you through how to declutter your classroom starting with your teacher desk and working outward to key areas like the front of the room, filing cabinets, storage cabinets, and closets. Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode183 Resources Mentioned: Classroom Reset Challenge Labs When Limited Free Sample Mini-Course Labs Mini-Course Secondary Science Simplified PD Course Bundle 12-pack of 6-quart storage containers Subscribe to my YouTube channel Follow me on TPT Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 22, Ending the Year Strong by Resetting Your Classroom Episode 23, Ending the Year Strong By Setting Summer Rocks and Boundaries Episode 75, End of Year Classroom CLEANOUT Without the FREAKOUT Episode 182, End the Year Organized: Your Resources…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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182. End the Year Organized: Your Resources 24:46

27 days ago24:46

24:46

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 overview of how to end the year strong—and set yourself up for a smoother start next fall. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode182 Resources Mentioned: 3 Ring Binder Pouches Oldie but goodie video of my binder organization Labs When Limited Free Course Virtual Color Consult Episode 80, Strategizing Your Sequence: Curriculum Design Part 1 Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 23, Ending the Year Strong By Setting Summer Rocks and Boundaries Episode 75, End of the Year Classroom Cleanout Without the Freakout Episode 131, End-of-Year Resource Audit Episode 132, End-of-Year Personal Reflection - 6 Questions to Ask Yourself Episode 138, Serving Future You - How to Work Smarter, Not Harder…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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181. What to Do When Your Job Feels Stale (And Maybe Even Boring) 27:54

5 weeks ago27:54

27:54

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 semester of the same curriculum, staleness can creep into even the most passionate teacher’s classroom. I've been there, teaching multiple sections of general biology, repeating the same lessons over and over again, semester after semester. That's why I'm sharing eight practical strategies to reignite your teaching spark when your job feels stale. They worked for me, and I know they can work for you too! From considering a new course prep to collaborating with colleagues, investing in fresh resources, and shifting towards more student-centered approaches, these tips are designed to help you break out of your educational rut and rediscover the joy of teaching. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode181 Resources Mentioned: INRS PD Courses Labs When Limited Virtual PD Course (free!) Core Values Mini-Course Teach the Class Project Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 29, Student-Centered Pedagogy: What It Is Episode 30, Student-Centered Pedagogy: Why Make the Shift Episode 31, Student-Centered Pedagogy: How to Do It Episode 32, Student-Centered Pedagogy: One Way to Start Episode 72, Review Strategies for EOC, Benchmark, and AP Exams Episode 121, Burned Out? When It’s Time to Make a Change Episode 153, How to Make Boring Topics More Engaging Episode 166, How to Use Your Students to Work Smarter Rather Than Harder…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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180. Unpacking the NGSS With Christina Agurcia of Make Them Think 30:29

6 weeks ago30:29

30:29

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 actually make that happen in your classroom. Christina has been working with NGSS since 2015, and she brings a refreshing, practical perspective on what these standards really mean for science educators. We unpack the why behind NGSS, including how Science and Engineering Practices and Crosscutting Concepts can shift your classroom from passive to powerful. Christina shares how these elements help students think more critically, make cross-disciplinary connections, and engage with science in a way that mirrors what scientists actually do. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode180 Resources: Be on the podcast! The Wonder of Science Bozeman Science Phenomena for NGSS Skype a Scientist A Framework For K-12 Science Education Phenomenon-Driven Storylines 3D Molecular Designs BronxZoo Teacher PD Courses Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Take the Free Labs When Limited virtual PD course Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect with Christina: Instagram: @makethemthinktpt TPT Store Make Them Think Newsletter Email: makethemthink@tpt.page Related Episodes: Episode 179, Unpacking the NGSS: Phenomena and Storylines Episode 178, Unpacking the NGSS: SEPs and CCCs Episode 177, Unpacking the NGSS: What High School Science Teachers Need to Know…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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179. Unpacking the NGSS: Phenomena and Storylines 26:03

7 weeks ago26:03

26:03

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 phenomena, how they tie into storylines, and why giving students a role in the process transforms engagement. Plus, I’m sharing practical tips to start small and make these strategies work with what you’re already doing. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode179 Resources: Antibiotic Resistance Lab INRS Complete Units Ecosystem in a Bottle Project Using Phenomena to Teach the NGSS Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes: Episode 178, Unpacking the NGSS: SEPs and CCCs Episode 177, Unpacking the NGSS: What High School Science Teachers Need to Know Episode 153, How to Make Boring Topics More Engaging Episode 107, NGSS and Standards-Based Grading with Guest Boni Hamilton Episode 106, Standards-Based Grading, Citizenship Grades, Motivation and MORE with Guest Jennica Harrison…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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178. Unpacking the NGSS: SEPs and CCCs 29:03

8 weeks ago29:03

29:03

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/episode178 Resources Mentioned: Culture Mini Course Photosynthesis Relay Activity Neuron Communication and Signal Transmission Inquiry Activity Female Cycle Inquiry Activity Secondary Science Simplified® Virtual PD Course Bundle Episode 177, Unpacking the NGSS: What High School Science Teachers Need to Know Episode 173, 9 Quick Ways to Use AI to Simplify Your Life as a Teacher Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 176, Teaching AP Biology, Exam Review, FRQ Prep, and MORE with Tiffany of AP Bio Penguins Episode 107, NGSS and Standards-Based Grading with Guest Boni Hamilton Episode 106, Standards-Based Grading, Citizenship Grades, Motivation and MORE with Guest Jennica Harrison…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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177. Unpacking the NGSS: What High School Science Teachers Need to Know 28:09

9 weeks ago28:09

28:09

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 approach (or even if you aren't in an NGSS state!), this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to make small, impactful changes in your science classroom. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode177 Resources Mentioned: Human Impact Sustainability Project: An Investigation of Carbon Footprints All INRS units that come with NGSS Alignment Guides Lessons Mini-Course Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes; Episode 158, How to Not Feel Like You Are Teaching to the Test Episode 147, Content Coverage - How to Get Through All of the Standards Episode 116, Behind Schedule? What to Do And How to Prevent It In the Future Episode 107, NGSS and Standards-Based Grading with Guest Boni Hamilton…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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176. Teaching AP Biology, Exam Review, FRQ Prep and MORE With Tiffany of AP Bio Penguins 56:28

10 weeks ago56:28

56:28

AP Biology comes with big challenges—pacing, labs, and preparing students for that exam. But today’s guest, Tiffany from AP Bio Penguins, is here to help! Tiffany shares her best strategies for structuring class time, simplifying labs, and making test prep less stressful, all while keeping students engaged. She also reveals her advice for grading smarter (not harder!) and creating free, accessible resources to support all learners. Whether you're a seasoned AP Bio teacher or tackling the course for the first time, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you teach with more confidence. Don't forget to check out the resources linked below, and happy Cinco de Bio! 🎉 ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode176 Resources Mentioned: AP Bio Penguins 396 Page Review Guide AP Bio CED AP Bio Penguins Instagram AP Bio Penguins YouTube Become an AP Reader AP Review Notebook Blank Files for Review Notebook National AP Bio FB Group BioInteractive Learn.Genetics Never Work Harder Than Your Students and Other Principles of Great Teaching, by Robyn R. Jackson Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 125, Teaching AP Biology with Guest Beth Hines Episode 98, 5 Tips for Teaching Biochemical Reactions in Your Biology Class Episode 34, Teaching Biology - 4 Things NOT to Do Episode 15, Teaching Seniors, AP Biology, and MORE with Diana Price Mistakes Teachers Make When Teaching Biology…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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175. How and WHY I Teach Students to Take Notes 21:50

11 weeks ago21:50

21:50

Whether we like it or not, teaching students to take notes is an important part of being a high school teacher! Is that an unpopular opinion? Maybe, but I still stand by it! Beyond just understanding the content, strong note-taking skills set students up for success in life, no matter where their future takes them. When it comes to teaching these skills, there are plenty of options: typing, doodle-based notes, interactive notebooks…the list goes on! I’ve tried them all, and hands down, Cornell notes are my favorite. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly why I love the Cornell note taking method and how you can use it in your secondary science classroom. ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode175 Resources Mentioned: Episode 123, What to Do When You Care More Than Your Students Do Episode 6, Engaging Students in Lecture How to Use Cornell Notes in High School Science The Cornell Note Taking System Otter.ai https://otter.ai/ Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 168, Differentiation in Your Science Classroom - Simple Tips to Decrease Overwhelm Episode 163, What I Wish I Knew in my First Year of Teaching High School Science: 5 Simple Tips Why I Don’t Use Interactive Notebooks in my Secondary Classroom and What I Use Instead…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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174. 7 Ways to Teach Your Students to Use AI Productively 20:20

12 weeks ago20:20

20:20

Is AI the future of learning or just another way for students to cut corners? In this episode, we’re talking all about how to help students use AI in a way that actually benefits their learning - without letting it do all the thinking for them. Instead of banning AI or ignoring it, we need to teach students how to use it as a tool for things like communication, skill practice, and test review. When used the right way, AI can be so helpful, but only if students know how to use it responsibly! ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode174 Resources Mentioned: Episode 173, 9 Quick Ways to Use AI to Simplify Your Life as a Teacher Episode 157, Serving ELLs with AI and More with Guest Alyse of Keystone Science Episode 154, AI and ChatGPT with Guest Mitch Wieland Episode 94, How to Deal with Cheating in Your High School Science Classes AI for Education Magic School Diffit Otter.ai Google Translate Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 160, 4 Proven Tips to INSTANTLY Decrease Your Grading Time Episode 155, How to Create Active and Accountable Learners in Your Secondary Science Classroom Episode 110, How to Manage a Classroom of Apathetic Students Episode 96, Why I Stopped Assigning Homework (And 6 Surprising Results)…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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173. 9 Quick Ways to Use AI to Simplify Your Life as a Teacher 22:04

13 weeks ago22:04

22:04

Imagine having a virtual assistant to help with lesson plans, assessments, and student feedback. AI can make that a reality! In this episode, I’m sharing nine practical ways to use AI to streamline your workload, from generating transcripts to creating choice boards and assessments. You’ll hear quick examples, plus my favorite tools (including one that makes test reviews a breeze!). But AI isn’t perfect, and it’s definitely not a replacement for real teachers—so how can we use it wisely? Let’s dive in and explore how to make AI work for you, not the other way around! ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode173 Resources Mentioned: Magic School Otter.ai Diffit Google Translate AI for Education Episode 157, Serving ELLs with AI and More with Guest Alyse of Keystone Science Episode 154, AI and ChatGPT with Guest Mitch Wieland Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes and Blog Posts: Episode 162, 5 Essential Hacks for High School and Middle School Science Teachers Episode 160, 4 Proven Tips to INSTANTLY Decrease Your Grading Time Episode 155, How to Create Active and Accountable Learners in Your Secondary Science Classroom Episode 62, 5 Ways to Instantly Make Your Planning Period More Productive…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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172. Content-Specific Differentiation Tips 27:19

14 weeks ago27:19

27:19

In the final episode of our differentiation series, I’m sharing practical strategies for implementing content-specific differentiation. Whether you teach biology, chemistry, anatomy, or physical science, you’ll learn how to prioritize key concepts, adjust instruction for CP and honors students, and simplify your approach using built-in supports from It’s Not Rocket Science®. Plus, I’ll help you determine which topics deserve the most focus so you can confidently tailor your lessons to best support your students! ➡️ Show Notes: https://itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com/episode172 Resources: It’s Not Rocket Science® Complete Units Biology Curriculum Full Year Bundle Chemistry Curriculum Full Year Bundle Anatomy Curriculum Full Year Bundle Physical Science Curriculum Full Year Bundle Download your FREE Classroom Reset Challenge. Send me a DM on Instagram: @its.not.rocket.science Send me an email: rebecca@itsnotrocketscienceclassroom.com Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts. Related Episodes: Episode 168, Differentiation in Your Science Classroom – Simple Tips to Decrease Overwhelm Episode 169, Differentiating for Higher Achieving Students (That Isn’t Just Extra Work) Episode 170, Differentiating for Lower Achieving Students (Without Lowering the Bar) Episode 171, Differentiation Within One Class Period (And How to Not Make it Obvious)…

Secondary Science Simplified™

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171. Differentiating Within One Class Period (And How to Not Make It Obvious) 37:53

15 weeks ago37:53