Preparing for the Next Generation Science Standards—Developing and Using Models

Next Generation Science Standards, expected out next year, are based on The Framework for K-12 Science Education released in 2011 by the National Research Council (NRC). The Framework describes the major practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas that all students should be familiar with by the end of high school. Starting September 11, 2012 and continuing through December, NSTA is presenting eight web seminars on the practices described in the Framework. This web seminar will focus on Developing and Using Models. Register today!

The Framework notes that “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.”

Teachers will learn more about:

• how modeling tools are used to develop questions, predictions, and explanations;
• how students can analyze and identify flaws in systems; and communicate ideas;
• methods where models are used to build and revise scientific explanations and proposed engineered systems; and
• how measurements and observations are used to revise models and designs.

Target grades: Primarily focused on grades 6-12, but applicable to K-12
Date: Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Time: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Note: The formal program will now begin at 6:30. Training for new users will start at 6:15.
Presenters: Christina Schwartz and Cindy Passmore