Science Curriculum
Science, engineering, and technology permeate nearly every facet of modern life, and they also hold the key to meeting many of humanity’s most pressing current and future challenges. Yet too few U.S. workers have strong backgrounds in these fields, and many people lack even fundamental knowledge of them. This national trend has created a widespread call for a new approach to K-12 science education in the United States.
The Committee on a Conceptual Framework for New K-12 Science Education Standards was charged with developing a framework that articulates a broad set of expectations for students in science. The overarching goal of the framework for K-12 science education is to ensure that by the end of 12th grade, all students have some appreciation of the beauty and wonder of science; possess sufficient knowledge of science and engineering to engage in public discussions on related issues; are careful consumers of scientific and technological information related to their everyday lives; are able to continue to learn about science outside school; and have the skills to enter careers of their choice, including (but not limited to) careers in science, engineering, and technology. (Excerpt from A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas (2012)
In Montgomery County Public Schools, science is important. The goal is for all students to become scientifically literate. This means they understand how science works and can use it in their lives. The science program in MCPS follows the Next Generation Science Standards that help students learn science in a way that is engaging and relevant to their lives. Teachers use real-world examples and experiments to help students learn. The MCPS science curriculum is organized so that students build on what they learn each year from K-12 which helps them develop a deep understanding of science. Students in MCPS science classes explore science through hands-on activities, discussions, and reading and writing. They also learn how to use scientific tools and methods to solve real-world problems. The MCPS science program is designed to help students become successful lifelong learners. They will be prepared for college and careers that require a strong understanding of science.
Curriculum Overview
MISA UPDATE
In February 2020, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) voted to modify the high school science assessment for graduation, known as the Maryland Integrated Science Assessment (HS MISA) from addressing topics in three science domains (life science, physical science, earth/space science) to addressing topics in a single science domain (life science).
Beginning in 2023 students will be expected to pass this version of the HS MISA to graduate.
For students taking the MISA in the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school year, taking the MISA will meet graduation assessment requirements for science.