Inquisitive is an Idaho Department of Education approved resource for elementary science and technology. Lessons are aligned to the Idaho Science Standards, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Idaho Technology Standards. This article explains the alignment, available supporting documents and what is included for Idaho classrooms.
Standards alignment
Inquisitive lessons are phenomena-driven and built on three-dimensional learning, which integrates core ideas, crosscutting concepts and science and engineering practices. The 5E model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate) is used throughout. Built-in assessments track student mastery digitally or on paper.
Supporting documents
Lessons, materials and formats included
Open-and-go lessons with teaching notes, model responses and background science
Hands-on activities using simple, everyday materials
Available in 50+ languages with WCAG-compliant design
Digital, print, eBook, video and text-to-speech formats
Support for Idaho classrooms
Open-and-go teaching notes reduce prep time
Teacher Guide includes background science, model responses and answers to support inquiry
Materials calculator simplifies hands-on activities using everyday materials
Flexible pacing supports different schedules
Optional hands-on kits are available
Teach with or without technology
Teachers choose how technology fits into their classroom.
With technology:
Interactive digital lessons
Individual student logins and Google Classroom integration
Built-in assessments and digital gradebook
Student responses captured in real time
Easy assignment sharing
Works for 1:1 Chromebook or iPad classrooms
With little or no technology:
Project lessons for whole-class instruction and discussion
Printable student activity sheets, available in 50+ languages
Investigations using everyday classroom materials
Discussions and collaborative learning without requiring student devices
Digital and print resources can be mixed
Accessibility and multilingual support
Multimodal content, including printables, eBooks, interactives and videos
Differentiated activities with scaffolds and extensions for all learners
Available in 50+ languages, in print, digital and text-to-speech
WCAG-compliant design
Multiple ways for students to demonstrate understanding
Free access through the SDE Science Pathways Program
Inquisitive Science supports the SDE Science Pathways Program. Teachers who joined the Science Pathways Program for SY26-27 received free access to Inquisitive, along with professional learning and coaching.
Optional science kits
Classroom science kits are available to support hands-on investigations. Kits include ready-to-use materials organized by unit, which reduces teacher preparation and simplifies classroom management. Purchasing options are flexible.
Technology, digital and AI literacy
Inquisitive also covers a K-5 technology curriculum, aligned to Idaho Technology Standards:
Builds digital literacy and AI understanding
Develops problem solving and critical thinking
Focuses on safe, ethical technology use
Uses real-world, age-appropriate tasks
Professional learning and implementation support
Professional development options include:
Virtual and on-site training
Specialized sessions, including Making Science 3D, the 5E Model and Visible Thinking Routines
Ongoing coaching and support options
Contact
Idaho Success and Curriculum Lead: Marisa Alan
Email: marisa.alan@inquisitive.com
Phone: 208-559-6298