Science

The science curriculum in Kansas is designed to cultivate students' curiosity, inquiry skills, and scientific literacy. It aims to foster a deep understanding of key scientific concepts, promote scientific thinking, and develop critical skills necessary for scientific exploration and problem-solving. The curriculum integrates various scientific disciplines and emphasizes the application of scientific knowledge in real-world contexts.

The goals of the science curriculum in Kansas include:

Inquiry and Investigation: The curriculum encourages students to engage in scientific inquiry and investigation. They learn to ask questions, design and conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and draw evidence-based conclusions. Students develop skills in observation, measurement, and the use of scientific tools and technology.

Scientific Concepts and Content: The curriculum focuses on developing students' understanding of fundamental scientific concepts across multiple disciplines, including physical science, life science, earth and space science, and engineering. Students explore concepts such as matter and energy, living organisms and ecosystems, Earth's systems, forces and motion, and the nature of scientific inquiry.

Science and Engineering Practices: The curriculum emphasizes the integration of science and engineering practices. Students engage in activities that involve designing and testing solutions to real-world problems, utilizing the engineering design process. They also develop skills in scientific communication, collaboration, and critical evaluation of scientific information.

Cross-Cutting Concepts: The curriculum integrates cross-cutting concepts that span across different scientific disciplines. Students learn to identify and apply concepts such as patterns, cause and effect, systems and system models, scale and proportion, energy and matter, and stability and change. These concepts provide a framework for making connections and understanding the interrelationships within the scientific world.

Science and Society: The curriculum explores the impact of science on society and the connections between science, technology, and human progress. Students develop an awareness of the ethical, social, and environmental implications of scientific advancements. They engage in discussions about the responsible use of technology, sustainability, and the role of science in addressing global challenges.

Nature of Science: The curriculum introduces students to the nature of science and its processes. They learn about the characteristics of scientific knowledge, the role of evidence, and the importance of skepticism and peer review. Students develop an understanding of scientific theories, laws, and models, as well as the iterative nature of scientific inquiry.

Science Literacy: The curriculum promotes scientific literacy, equipping students with the ability to understand and critically evaluate scientific information. Students develop skills in reading and interpreting scientific texts, graphs, and data. They also learn to communicate scientific ideas effectively, both orally and in written form.

The science curriculum in Kansas encourages active engagement, hands-on investigations, and collaborative learning. It strives to foster scientific curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, and nurture an appreciation for the natural world. By providing a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and practices, the curriculum prepares students to be informed citizens and enables them to pursue further studies and careers in the sciences.

Instructional Resource:

Mystery Science

Publisher: Discovery Education

KSDE Standards for Science