Next-Generation Science Standards

With private funding from the Carnegie Corporation, the National Research Council (NRC) and Achieve, with support from NSTA and the AAAS, have embarked on a two step cooperative process to develop the Next Generation Science Standards. The first step was to develop a conceptual framework that is grounded in current research on science and science learning and identifies the science all K–12 students should know. In July, 2011 NRC released A Framework for K–12 Science Education, which served as the foundation for new K–12 science education standards. The next step was the development of the standards. That state-led process was being managed by Achieve and involved scientists, science teachers, policy makers, industry, and other interested parties. The standards are expected to be completed in late 2012.