Article 4
New Science
Standards Designed for Wide Range of Learners
Lesli Maxwell reports on the Next Generation Science
Standards (NGSS). Upon writing the NGSS, writers had only one mandate in mind, “Develop standards with all students in mind, not just the high achievers already
expected to excel in the subject.” These standards were created in order
to prepare students for a career in science, engineering, or math. The goal is
to allow all students to have a “rigorous and deep science education”.
The writing team is a very diverse and
composed mostly of classroom teachers. With the achievement gaps in mind, the
team decided to write the standards very carefully to ensure English Language
Learners would not get confused by avoiding multiple meanings of language. It
was their goal, while writing, to allow every student to feel successful when
learning science. The team took the writing to the next step when they decided
to implement an appendix. Within this appendix, they supplied teachers with
real world examples and connections, with the idea that the standards were, “doable
by any student”. They included case studies for the teachers to have a better
understanding of how the new standards would work in an integrated and diverse classroom.
The NGSS team created the standards in a
way that motivated student learning. Students will be asked questions in hopes
of allowing them to think and respond as true scientists. Students will be
given opportunities in which they will have many hands on experiences. The
writers of the standards state, “They will truly learn like a scientist.”
After reading my first
article about the NGSS, I thought they would be a great tool to create a hands
on learning environment. This article written by Maxwell went even deeper and
allowed me to have a better understanding of what is yet to come. I am thankful
the writers took so much time analyzing various classroom structures in order
to provide the best tools for the teachers, but also taking the time to create in
depth standards to allow students to become involved in learning science. These
standards seem to be a true example of how science should be taught. Through
the new standards we will be teaching students to take control of their own
thinking and encourage them to explore more in what may already be familiar
with. The new standards are an example of a movement in science education. I
feel that science scores will improve and the standards will promote higher
order thinking- learning will actually begin.
I really liked your article 4. I thought it was neat to read more about the Next Generation Science Standards. I am excited for them to be implemented in Georgia, and hopefully Fulton County for me next year. I especially like how they are going to try not to have multiple meaning words for ESL students. I know that my ESL students really struggle with vocabulary in the science book, and being able to read from the book is very difficult. I like that these standards will motivate student learning, make science more hands-on, and involve more higher order thinking. I think you picked a wonderful article.
ReplyDeleteAmanda,
ReplyDeleteI really loved your synthesis of article #3. I truly hope that the new standards are geared towards all learning levels. It is important to meet the needs of lower students while challenging more advanced students all at the same time.