The eight Science and Engineering Practices mirror the practices of professional scientists and engineers. The use of SEPs in the Performance Expectations is not only intended to strengthen students’ skills in using these practices in the classroom, but also to develop students’ understanding of the nature of science and engineering. Listed below are the eight Science and Engineering Practices from the Framework:
Description: This practice involves students in the formulation of questions that can be investigated scientifically and the identification of problems that can be solved through engineering. In the context of science, students ask questions to understand phenomena, clarify concepts, or identify gaps in their knowledge. In engineering, defining problems includes specifying criteria and constraints for possible solutions.
Application: In a classroom, this could involve students asking questions about a natural event (e.g., why do some plants grow faster than others?) or defining a problem that requires a solution (e.g., how can we design a container that keeps ice from melting for as long as possible?).
Description: Students create and use models to represent and understand phenomena, systems, or processes. Models can be physical, mathematical, or conceptual, and they serve as tools for predicting outcomes and explaining how things work. This practice encourages students to refine their models as they gather more data.
Application: For example, students might build a physical model of a solar system to understand planetary motion, or they could create a computer simulation to predict weather patterns. As they learn more, they revise these models to better reflect reality.
Description: This practice involves designing and conducting experiments or observational studies to collect data about natural or engineered systems. Students learn to identify variables, control conditions, and use tools and techniques for data collection.
Application: In the classroom, students might plan an investigation to test the effect of different variables on plant growth, such as light intensity or water availability. They would carry out the experiment, collect data, and adjust their approach as necessary.
Description: Once data is collected, students must analyze it to identify patterns or trends, and interpret what the data means in the context of their initial questions or hypotheses. This practice helps students develop critical thinking skills as they assess the quality of the data and draw conclusions.
Application: Students might graph data from an experiment on temperature changes throughout the day and analyze the graph to determine the relationship between sunlight and temperature. They could also use statistical tools to interpret the reliability of their data.
Description: This practice emphasizes the importance of mathematics and computation in analyzing data, modeling systems, and solving problems. Students apply mathematical concepts, algorithms, and computer simulations to understand scientific phenomena or engineering challenges.
Application: For instance, students might use mathematical equations to calculate the force required to move an object, or they could use a computer program to simulate population growth in an ecosystem under different conditions.
Description: Students use evidence to construct explanations for natural phenomena and develop solutions to engineering problems. In science, this involves using data and models to support explanations; in engineering, it involves designing, testing, and refining solutions to meet specific criteria.
Application: After investigating why a plant species thrives in a particular environment, students could construct an explanation based on their data. In an engineering context, they might design a water filtration system, test its effectiveness, and improve it based on test results.
Description: This practice involves students in the critical analysis of their own and others' ideas. They must be able to use evidence to support their claims, evaluate the claims of others, and engage in reasoned debate. This skill is crucial for scientific literacy, as it enables students to discern credible information and make informed decisions.
Application: In a classroom debate, students could argue for or against the impact of human activity on climate change, using evidence from research and data they have analyzed. This practice helps them learn to think critically and back up their arguments with solid evidence.
Description: Students are taught to gather information from various sources, assess its credibility and relevance, and communicate their findings effectively. This practice is essential for participating in scientific and technical discussions and for disseminating research findings to a broader audience.
Application: For example, students might research different energy sources, evaluate the pros and cons of each, and then present their findings in a report or presentation. They could also create visual aids or use digital media to communicate complex ideas clearly.