Science

A Framework for K-12 Science Education 

Want to better understand the standards? The NYSSLS are based, in large part, on A Framework for K-12 Science Education. The links below offer a copy of that document as a whole and of key document sections for easier access. 

• A Framework for K-12 Science Education

• Framework Snapshot -- Science and Engineering Practices

• Framework Snapshot -- Crosscutting Concepts

• Framework Snapshot -- DCI: Physical Sciences

• Framework Snapshot -- DCI: Life Sciences

• Framework Snapshot -- DCI: Earth and Space Sciences

• Framework Snapshot -- DCI: Engineering, Technology, and the Application of Science

High School Course Development 

Follow this structure to connect the High School Standards to the appropriate courses (Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics), per NYSED guidance.  

Resources from NYSED

ELEMENTARY:
- Performance Level Descriptors (3-5)

INTERMEDIATE:
- Performance Level Descriptors (6-8)

HIGH SCHOOL: 

Earth and Space Sciences
- Performance Level Descriptors (Earth & Space Sciences)
- Earth and Space Sciences Sample Clusters (Spring 2024)
- ESS Sample Cluster Rating Guide (Spring 2024)
- Earth and Space Sciences Sample Clusters (Fall 2024)
- ESS Sample Cluster Rating Guide (Fall 2024)

Life Science: Biology
- Performance Level Descriptors (Life Science: Biology)
- Life Science: Biology Sample Clusters (Spring 2024)
- Life Science: Biology Rating Guide (Spring 2024)

Other Resources, Ideas, and Phenomena 

Looking for ideas? Check out these offerings from experts around the country!

New Visions Curricula: Based on NYS Science Learning Standards; free
- Life Science: Biology
- Earth & Space Sciences
- Chemistry
- Physics

OpenSciEd Curricula: NGSS-based; requires free sign-up.
- High School Curricula (Biology, Chemistry, Physics -- ESS is built into these courses)
- Middle School Curricula
- Elementary School Curricula 

The Wonder of Science: Paul Andersen's fantastic work!
- Mini Lessons for Crosscutting Concepts and Science and Engineering Practices
- Phenomena by Grade Level/Band
- Other Resources including Graphics & Tools, Assessments, Unit Planning, Implementation, and more!

Next Generation Science Standards Resources:
NGSS Phenomena -- Images, GIFs, and video clips of phenomena that can be used to initiate inquiry.
NGSS Storylines -- "Storylines" that address multiple Performance Expectations; from Brian Riser and colleagues.
NGSS Workshops -- Developed by Joe Krajcik, Lappan-Phillips Professor of Science Education at Michigan State University.

Other Resources:
#Going3D -- Lessons, ideas, and guidance from Brett Moulding, Nicole Paulson and colleagues.
Better Lesson -- Lessons from teachers. As with anytime that you look at another's work, be certain that you evaluate the material to see how well it meets your needs.
Library Resources -- Specifically designed for access by educators in Rome City School District. 

The Big Ideas

This is an opportunity to dig into the most significant shift in the NYS Standards: the Practices. Practices have been identified for Reading and Writing, as well as for Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. How do they tie to our planning, our instruction, and the children's learning?

Step One:  Download this document and take a look at the Common Practices

Step Two:  Use The Big Ideas document to begin to identify commonalities and to brainstorm next steps