NSTA Resources: Preparing for Next Generation Science Standards
Check out the growing list of NSTA resources that take an in-depth look at the Framework and explore the implications for science teaching.
NSTA Offers Guide for Leading Study Groups on Soon-To-Be-Released Public Draft Standards
NSTA suggests educators form study groups with colleagues to have focused discussions about the document. A study group is an excellent means to become familiar with the NGSS in preparation for implementation decisions and plans when the final document is released. In-depth discussions among peers will also prove valuable in providing informed feedback to Achieve. Whether you engage a small group of teachers from your school or reach out and plan a larger group review, a healthy dialogue among peers will prove valuable and informative.
Download the study guide (PDF) »
NSTA Makes Recommendations to Achieve on New Science Standards
Following the release of the Framework, NSTA convened a review team to examine the document in-depth to determine any general weaknesses and deficiencies, and to consider the previous recommendations made to NRC and identify areas we thought needed further interpretation and direction. The NSTA review team collectively made nine recommendations we feel Achieve should consider and incorporate when drafting new standards.
An NSTA Reader’s Guide to the Framework
What can science educators can do now to prepare for new science standards in 2012? NSTA Past President, Harold Pratt, gives his insights and ideas in the NSTA Reader's Guide. The Guide assists science educators in the study of the Framework. For each chapter of the Framework, the Guide provides a brief overview, an analysis of what's new and different from previous standards and benchmarks, and suggested actions science educators can take to learn more about the concepts and ideas. Download this free e-pub (PDF) from the NSTA Science Store »
NSTA Web Seminars
Making the Transition to Scientific and Engineering Practices: Visiting the Potential of the Next Generation Science Standards
Next generation science standards will include an important new element—scientific and engineering practices—as established in the Framework for K–12 Science Education. What are these practices? What is the connection between science practices and engineering practices? How are they different or similar to inquiry? What do these practices mean for science teaching? This seminar explored scientific and engineering practices in more depth and addressed what this transition from inquiry to practices means for science teachers. Click here to view and hear the archived program or to download a PDF of the presentation materials.
An Overview of A Framework for K–12 Science Education
This "standing-room-only" NSTA web seminar held in July took an in-depth look at the content of the Framework. Helen Quinn, Tom Keller, and Brett Moulding, representing the National Research Council, gave an overview of the Framework, background on its design, and implications for science standards, and NSTA Executive Director Francis Eberle highlighted NSTA's involvement and related work. Click here to view and hear the archived program or to download a PDF of the presentation materials.
Articles and More
NSTA Journal Series: Exploring the Science Framework
The Framework for K–12 Science Education brings some new and innovative perspectives to science education. From engineering technology to crosscutting concepts there is much to learn and explore. A special article series by NSTA examines key elements of the Framework. The articles are authored by many of those who contributed to the development of the Framework and will appear in the coming months in all editions of NSTA journals and on this dedicated web page.
NSTA Reports
Presentations at NSTA Conferences