NRC A Framework For K-12 Science Education Practices,
Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas
The "Framework" is the first step in a long process to create the new NGSS standards which are based on a rich and growing body of research on teaching and learning in science, as well as two decades of efforts to define foundational knowledge and skills for K-12 science and engineering, such as Science for All Americans (1993), Benchmarks for Science Literacy (1993), National Science Education Standards (1996), Project 2061 (AAAS), and The Anchors Project (NSTA, 2009). To effectively implement NGSS an understanding of the National Research Council’s A Framework for K–12 Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards, including the Appendices A-M , is needed.
The overarching goal of the Framework is that by the end of 12th grade ALL students have some appreciation of the beauty and wonder of science; possess sufficient knowledge of science and engineering to engage in public discussions on related issues; are careful consumers of scientific knowledge and technological information related to their everyday lives; are able to continue to learn about science outside of school; and have the skills to enter career of their choice, including but not limited to careers in science, engineering, and technology.
