A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas

by National Research Council, Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Board on Science Education

Science, engineering, and technology permeate nearly every facet of modern life and hold the key to solving many of humanity's most pressing current and future challenges. The United States' position in the global economy is declining, in part because U.S. workers lack fundamental knowledge in these fields. To address the critical issues of U.S. competitiveness and to better prepare the workforce, A Framework for K-12 Science Education proposes a new approach to K-12 science education that will capture students' interest and provide them with the necessary foundational knowledge in the field.

A Framework for K-12 Science Education outlines a broad set of expectations for students in science and engineering in grades K-12. These expectations will inform the development of new standards for K-12 science education and, subsequently, revisions to curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development for educators. This book identifies three dimensions that convey the core ideas and practices around which science and engineering education in these grades should be built. These three dimensions crosscutting concepts that unify the study of science through their common application across science and engineering; scientific and engineering practices; and disciplinary core ideas in the physical sciences, life sciences, and earth and space sciences and for engineering, technology, and the applications of science. The overarching goal is for all high school graduates to have sufficient knowledge of science and engineering to engage in public discussions on science-related issues, be careful consumers of scientific and technical information, and enter the careers of their choice.

A Framework for K-12 Science Education is the first step in a process that can inform state-level decisions and achieve a research-grounded basis for improving science instruction and learning across the country. The book will guide standards developers, teachers, curriculum designers, assessment developers, state and district science administrators, and educators who teach science in informal environments.

Genres: Education, Teaching, Science, Nonfiction

400 pages, Paperback

First published February 15, 2012

About the author

The National Research Council (NRC) functions under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), and the Institute of Medicine (IOM). The NAS, NAE, IOM, and NRC are part of a private, nonprofit institution that provides science, technology and health policy advice under a congressional charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln that was originally granted to the NAS in 1863. Under this charter, the NRC was established in 1916, the NAE in 1964, and the IOM in 1970. The four organizations are collectively referred to as the National Academies.

The mission of the NRC is to improve government decision making and public policy, increase public education and understanding, and promote the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in matters involving science, engineering, technology, and health. The institution takes this charge seriously and works to inform policies and actions that have the power to improve the lives of people in the U.S. and around the world.

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Reviews

[Leanna Aker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good to finally read this and understand the inspiration for the NGSS. This book calls for ambitious changes at all levels of science instruction, including pre-service teacher preparation all the way to assessment.

[Laura Chase · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first grad school read. It was interesting to see the research and inspiration behind the development of the NGSS science standards. (I actually think it is weird that I did a research-based Master's program, taught NGSS standards for 7 years, and worked for a STEM teacher training program and had never heard of this publication before.) I agreed with almost everything written here, in principle, but it seemed broad and idealistic. All we need to do to make this framework work is solve all society's problems; including poverty, gender/racial bias, and resource allocation on a national level! :P

[Supe]

Yes I read it.

[Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an extremely useful resource.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful, but not a "pleasant " read.