Crosscutting Concepts

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Crosscutting Concepts: The Supporting Cast of Science Learning and Sensemaking

By Karissa Smith January 11, 2026

Crosscutting concepts are the ideas that help students connect their thinking across science experiences. This post explains what they are, why they matter for sensemaking, and how to introduce them thoughtfully in K–2 classrooms....

Hi! I’m Karissa, founder of Fascination Science, an award-winning K–2 educator and curriculum designer. After 18 years in Texas classrooms, K–2 is still my happy place. I’m passionate about helping little learners fall in love with science: teaching them to read, write, and think like scientists. When I’m not shuttling my personal kids to extracurriculars, chasing our two dogs, or sneaking in another cup of coffee, I’m building low-prep, phenomena-based lessons for teachers and homeschool families.

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