We teach in one of the remaining six states that have not adopted the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). In this article, we share approaches to guide elementary teacher candidates through the process of deciphering the three dimensions of the NGSS to create lesson objectives. We modeled how to take steps toward the new vision for science education in our instruction while being mindful of the requirements of our state. We made sure to reinforce what inquiry-based teaching and learning looked like and provided them with authentic learning experiences in two-75 minutes lessons. These experiences helped candidates better understand both the standards and the content requirements and supported them in including the three dimensions of the NGSS in their lesson objectives.