Science and Mathematics Standards in the Classroom...continued:
National Science Standards ideals…
These lofty ideals are embedded in the National Science Standards. As you continue to read this commentary, remember these ideals are the real purpose of standards. Of course, that purpose may not be obvious in state or local documents. I encourage you to apply these ideals during your implementation of standards-based learning
The National Science Standards’ authors believe: "Students actively develop their understanding of science by combining scientific knowledge with reasoning and thinking skills." (p. 5) Students involved in standards-based learning experience the excitement of the world around them, use science skills, and engage intelligently in public discourse. All of these goals are aimed at producing economically productive, scientifically literate citizens. Toward this end, students are expected to go far beyond memorization of facts. Devising and revising explanations are critical to standards-based learning. Those explanations must include application of results of student experimentation.
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Science Education Reform Index
