Bring Phenomena-Based Science Learning to Life with ATLAS
California’s science educators have a remarkable new resource for finding authentic, NGSS-aligned learning and assessment tasks for students in kindergarten through grade twelve.
Authentic Tasks for Learning and Assessment in Science (ATLAS) is a free, growing digital collection created with teachers, for teachers. Its classroom-ready performance tasks help students investigate meaningful phenomena and problems while applying science and engineering practices, building conceptual understanding, and communicating their thinking.
Rather than focusing only on recalling facts, ATLAS helps teachers connect instruction and assessment through authentic scientific work. The collection includes teacher-tested and peer-reviewed resources that can foster curiosity, collaboration, problem-solving, and scientific communication across the K–12 grade span.
Why science teachers should explore ATLAS
- Search for performance tasks aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards.
- Find authentic activities that engage students in making sense of phenomena and solving problems.
- Use tasks to support both classroom learning and meaningful assessment.
- Connect with resources shaped by California educators and classroom practice.
Whether you are planning a new unit, looking for a richer assessment, or seeking fresh ways for students to demonstrate what they know and can do, ATLAS is well worth exploring.