Next Generation Science Standards

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) are a set of K-12 science education standards in the United States. They focus on three dimensions: Science and Engineering Practices (skills), Crosscutting Concepts (overarching ideas), and Disciplinary Core Ideas (key concepts in science). NGSS emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts rather than memorization. These standards aim to improve science education by providing a cohesive framework for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade level.

Middle School Standards or Performance Expectations

Earth Science

MS-ESS3 Earth and Human Activity

Life Science

MS-LS1-6. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
MS-LS2 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
MS-LS4-4. Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment.

Engineering

MS-ETS1 Engineering Design

High School Standards or Performance Expectations

Life Science

HS-LS1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
HS-LS2 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
HS-LS4-6. Create or revise a simulation to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.

Next Generation Science Standards

Middle School Standards or Performance Expectations

High School Standards or Performance Expectations

Key Partners