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Last Updated:
August 3, 2024 at 12:27:02 PM
The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) have revolutionized K-12 science education by introducing a three-dimensional approach that includes Science and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas. This introduction focuses on Dimension 1, specifically Practice 3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations. As a fundamental aspect of scientific inquiry and engineering design, this practice empowers students to develop critical thinking skills and engage directly with empirical science. By exploring the components and importance of this practice, we can better understand its role in fostering a hands-on, minds-on approach to learning science.
As parents, we all want to see our children grow into curious, capable problem-solvers. That's where the NGSS 3-Dimensional Learning approach comes in, particularly with Science and Engineering Practice 3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations. This practice is all about nurturing your child's natural curiosity and helping them develop essential skills for scientific inquiry.
When your little scientist plans and carries out investigations, they're learning to ask questions, make predictions, and gather evidence. It's like watching them become mini-detectives, piecing together clues to understand the world around them. This process helps them develop critical thinking skills and builds confidence in their ability to find answers independently.
You can support this learning at home by encouraging your child to ask questions about everyday phenomena. For example, "Why does ice melt faster in warm water?" Then, help them design simple experiments to test their ideas. Remember, it's not about getting the "right" answer, but about fostering a love for exploration and discovery.
As your child progresses, they'll learn to identify variables, collect data, and analyze results. These skills aren't just for the science classroom – they're valuable life skills that will serve them well in any future career path.
So, the next time your child asks a "why" question, instead of providing an immediate answer, try responding with, "That's a great question! How do you think we could find out?" You'll be amazed at the creative investigations they come up with, and you'll be supporting their growth as a young scientist in the process.
In conclusion, the practice of planning and carrying out investigations is a crucial component of the Next Generation Science Standards' three-dimensional approach to K-12 science education. This practice encompasses formulating questions and hypotheses, designing and executing investigations, analyzing data, and communicating findings. By incorporating this hands-on approach, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based reasoning skills essential for scientific inquiry. The integration of this practice not only fosters curiosity and deeper engagement with scientific concepts but also prepares students for future challenges in science and engineering. Ultimately, the emphasis on planning and carrying out investigations in science education equips students with the tools they need to explore, understand, and contribute to the world around them.
Planning & Carrying Out Investigations
Empower Your Child's Scientific Journey
Planning & Carrying out Investigations Resources & References
Official NGSS Resources
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Official Website Provides comprehensive information about the NGSS, including specific details on Science and Engineering Practices. https://www.nextgenscience.org/
A Framework for K-12 Science Education
This foundational document outlines the practices, crosscutting concepts, and core ideas essential for K-12 science education. 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] https://doi.org/10.17226/13165
Educational Websites and Platforms
PBS LearningMedia
Offers a variety of science resources, including videos and activities that align with NGSS. https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/subjects/science/
Science Buddies
Provides project ideas, experiments, and activities that support hands-on science learning aligned with NGSS. https://www.sciencebuddies.org/
Exploratorium
A website with interactive science activities and experiments designed to engage students in investigative science. https://www.exploratorium.edu/
Books and Publications
6. "Helping Your Child Learn Science" by U.S. Department of Education A guide with practical suggestions for parents to engage their children in science learning. https://www2.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/science/index.html
"NGSS for All Students" by Okhee Lee, Emily Miller, Rita Januszyk
his book offers strategies and resources to help all students succeed with NGSS, with a focus on equity and access. https://www.nsta.org/ngss-all-students
Online Courses and Workshops
Khan Academy
Free online courses and exercises in various science subjects aligned with NGSS. https://www.khanacademy.org/science
Coursera
Offers courses on teaching and understanding NGSS, including specific practices like planning and carrying out investigations. https://www.coursera.org/search?query=NGSS
Community and Support Networks
NGSS Parent Toolkit
A resource toolkit designed to help parents understand and support their child's science education under NGSS. https://www.nextgenscience.org/parentguides
National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)
Provides resources for parents and educators to support science learning at home. https://www.nsta.org/parents/
These resources and references offer a variety of ways for parents to support their children's understanding and engagement with the NGSS practice of planning and carrying out investigations. By utilizing these tools, parents can help foster a deeper appreciation and comprehension of science in their children's education.
