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Developing and using models

Below is the progression of the Science and Engineering Practice of Developing and Using Models, followed by Performance Expectations that make use of this Science and Engineering Practice.

2. Developing and using models

A practice of both science and engineering is to use and construct models as helpful tools for representing ideas and explanations. These tools include diagrams, drawings, physical replicas, mathematical representations, analogies, and computer simulations.

Primary School (K-2)
Modeling in K–2 builds on prior experiences and progresses to include using and developing models (i.e., diagram, drawing, physical replica, diorama, dramatization, or storyboard) that represent concrete events or design solutions.
Elemenatry School (3-5)
Modeling plays a crucial role in the educational development of young learners. Building upon their experiences in Kindergarten through second grade, students in grades three to five continue to expand their understanding of modeling and its applications. This progression allows them to develop the skills needed to construct and revise simple models, as well as use these models to represent events and design solutions. At this stage, students are introduced to more complex concepts and scenarios that require them to think critically and apply their knowledge. They learn how to create models that accurately represent real-world situations, allowing them to better understand and analyze various phenomena. By engaging in this process, students are encouraged to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. In addition, modeling helps students make connections between different subject areas. It allows them to apply mathematical principles and scientific concepts in practical ways, fostering interdisciplinary learning. Through the use of models, students can explore cause-and-effect relationships, test hypotheses, and devise solutions for real-life problems. Furthermore, modeling empowers students with a deeper comprehension of abstract ideas. It provides a tangible representation of concepts that may otherwise be challenging for young learners to grasp fully. By visually representing these ideas through models, students can enhance their understanding and communicate their thoughts effectively. Overall, the progression from K-2 experiences into modeling in grades 3-5 enables students not only to build on previous knowledge but also develop advanced skills necessary for problem-solving and critical thinking. Through this process, they gain a solid foundation that will serve them well as they continue their educational journey.
Middle School (6-8)
Modeling in 6–8 builds on K–5 experiences and progresses to developing, using, and revising models to describe, test, and predict more abstract phenomena and design systems.
High School (9-12)
Modeling in 9–12 builds on K–8 experiences and progresses to using, synthesizing, and developing models to predict and show relationships among variables between systems and their components in the natural and designed world(s).

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Developing and using models

By grade 12, students should be able to •     Construct drawings or diagrams as representations of events or systems—for example, draw a picture of an insect with labeled features, represent what happens to the water in a puddle as it is warmed by the sun, or represent a simple physical model of a real-world object and use it as the basis of an explanation or to make predictions about how the system will behave in specified circumstances. •     Represent and explain phenomena with multiple types of models—for example, represent molecules with 3-D models or with bond diagrams—and move flexibly between model types when different ones are most useful for different purposes. •     Discuss the limitations and precision of a model as the representation of a system, process, or design and suggest ways in which the model might be improved to better fit available evidence or better reflect a design’s specifications. Refine a model in light of empirical evidence or criticism to improve its quality and explanatory power. •     Use (provided) computer simulations or simulations developed with simple simulation tools as a tool for understanding and investigating aspects of a system, particularly those not readily visible to the naked eye. •     Make and use a model to test a design, or aspects of a design, and to compare the effectiveness of different design solutions. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2012. A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/13165.
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