OMIS Greenhouse & Sustainability Program
NGSS-Aligned Learning for a Sustainable Future
At Oak Meadow International School (OMIS), our Greenhouse Project is more than a garden—it is a Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)-aligned learning environment where students actively engage in real-world science, sustainability, and innovation.
Our Approach: Learning Science by Doing Science
1. Science & Engineering Practices (SEP)
Students learn by doing science, not just memorizing it:
● Planning and carrying out investigations (plant growth, soil testing, hydroponics)
● Analyzing and interpreting data (growth rates, environmental conditions)
● Designing solutions (irrigation systems, composting models)
● Constructing explanations using evidence (CER: Claim–Evidence–Reasoning)
2. Crosscutting Concepts (CCC)
Students understand how science connects across disciplines:
● Cause & Effect → How water, light, and nutrients affect plant growth
● Systems & System Models → Greenhouse as a living ecosystem
● Energy & Matter → Nutrient cycles, composting, and photosynthesis
● Stability & Change → Seasonal growth and environmental impacts
3. Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI)
Students build strong scientific knowledge through real applications:
● LS1: Structure and function of plants
● LS2: Ecosystems, interactions, and biodiversity
● LS2.B: Cycles of matter and energy flow
● ESS3: Human impact on Earth systems
● ETS1: Engineering design for sustainable solutions
The Greenhouse as a Living Laboratory
The OMIS Greenhouse transforms science into hands-on, inquiry-based learning:
Core Learning Zones:
● Plant Growth & Life Cycles Station (Primary focus)
● Composting & Worm Bed System (nutrient cycling)
● Hydroponics Lab (engineering & sustainable agriculture)
● Pollinator Garden (ecosystem interactions)
● Soil & Water Testing Bench (data-driven science)
Aligned with NGSS, students begin with real-world phenomena, such as:
● Why do some plants grow faster than others?
● How does compost improve soil health?
● Can plants grow without soil?
● How do human actions impact ecosystems?
Students investigate, collect data, and develop scientific explanations—just like real
scientists.
OMIS extends NGSS learning beyond school through partnerships with:
● Prince of Songkla University (PSU Phuket Campus)
● Phuket Rajabhat University
Students can:
● Participate in pre-university science programs
● Conduct research-based environmental investigations
● Access university labs and expert mentorship
● Explore careers in biology, environmental science, and sustainability
Sustainable Development Goals
Sustainability in Action (Applied Science)
Students apply NGSS concepts to real sustainability solutions:
● Waste reduction through composting and vermiculture
● Efficient water use and irrigation design
● Biodiversity conservation through native planting
● Future integration of renewable energy systems
Real-World Impact & Community Connection
The OMIS Greenhouse connects learning to the real world:
● Supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
● Engages students in local environmental challenges in Phuket
● Builds partnerships with universities and community organizations
● Serves as the centerpiece of the OMIS Science Fair
Why This Matters
Through this NGSS-aligned program, students develop:
● Scientific thinking and problem-solving skills
● Data literacy and evidence-based reasoning
● Environmental responsibility and global awareness
● Innovation, creativity, and leadership