The Standards

Connections to the Nature of Science

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Science Is a Way of Knowing
 
Primary School (K-2)

Science knowledge helps us know about the world.

Elementary School (3-5)

Science is both a body of knowledge and processes that add new knowledge.

Science is a way of knowing that is used by many people.

Middle School (6-8)

Science is both a body of knowledge and the processes and practices used to add to that body of knowledge.

Science knowledge is cumulative and many people, from many generations and nations, have contributed to science knowledge.

Science is a way of knowing used by many people, not just scientists.

High School (9-12)

Science is both a body of knowledge that represents a current understanding of natural systems and the processes used to refine, elaborate, revise, and extend this knowledge.

Science is a unique way of knowing and there are other ways of knowing.

Science distinguishes itself from other ways of knowing through use of empirical standards, logical arguments, and skeptical review.

Science knowledge has a history that includes the refinement of, and changes to, theories, ideas, and beliefs over time.