Collaborative Curiosity: Using Buddy Classes to Expand Science Learning
By Nancy Wright, Science Specialist at Lorin Eden Elementary and CASE Primary Director
Teachers Chris Scharfenkamp and Mhylet Zataray at Lorin Eden Elementary School in Hayward are showing how powerful cross-age learning can be by pairing their 5th graders and 1st graders for hands-on science. Their buddy-class partnership is a natural fit for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), which are designed to spiral concepts across grade levels. Older students revisit and deepen their understanding of key ideas, while younger students are introduced to scientific thinking through exploration and observation.
A major focus this year has been nature journaling. Together, students learn to slow down, notice details, and record what they see, hear, and wonder. Fifth graders act as mentors—guiding their 1st grade buddies in drawing, labeling, and asking questions—while also sharpening their own observational skills and sense of scientific inquiry.
The highlight of the fall was a joint field trip to Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve on October 2nd. Buddy pairs hiked the trails, sketched native plants, and built an appreciation for the outdoors together. For many students, it was their first time exploring such a large natural space, and experiencing it alongside a buddy made the learning even more meaningful.
By bringing students of different ages together and taking learning outside, Chris and Mhylet have created a joyful, NGSS-aligned model of science education—one that builds confidence, community, and a lifelong connection to the natural world.
Last year, Chris was a finalist for the NBC All Star Teacher Award. Watch this video to get a peak into Chris’ classroom and watch as Chris and Mhylet's students investigate sound together.
Buddy classes are a familiar practice in elementary education, yet applying them to science instruction is an especially powerful approach. Both age groups begin to see themselves as scientists. Younger students look up to the older students and bring enthusiasm and curiosity to the activities, while older students feel pride and responsibility in their leadership role as they deepen their understanding of the science concepts.
Nancy, Chris, and Mhylet at the SF Giants game celebrating Chris' All Star Nomination.
A student shows Chris an interesting plant that she had found.
Students nature journaling with their buddies.
Students hiking with their buddies.
Students nature journaling with their buddies.
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