STEM Next Generation Science Standards 3 ā Questions and Answers
Question 1: A teacher asks students to identify patterns in data from a long-term climate study and use those patterns to predict future conditions. Which Science and Engineering Practice is MOST prominently featured?
- Developing and Using Models
- Analyzing and Interpreting Data (Correct answer)
- Constructing Explanations
- Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Correct answer: Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Analyzing and Interpreting Data involves examining datasets to identify patterns, trends, and relationships and using them to draw conclusions.
Question 2: In the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices, 'Developing and Using Models' is distinct from simply drawing a diagram because models must:
- Be three-dimensional and built from physical materials
- Represent relationships and mechanisms that explain or predict phenomena (Correct answer)
- Be mathematically precise with quantitative variables only
- Be created individually without collaboration from peers
Correct answer: Represent relationships and mechanisms that explain or predict phenomena
NGSS models represent systems, mechanisms, or relationships used to explain phenomena or make predictions, going beyond decorative illustration.
Question 3: Which Science and Engineering Practice is most aligned with students reviewing each other's experimental designs and suggesting improvements based on scientific reasoning?
- Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
- Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
- Engaging in Argument from Evidence (Correct answer)
- Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
Correct answer: Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Engaging in Argument from Evidence includes critiquing and evaluating the scientific arguments and claims of peers using logic and empirical data.
Question 4: A high school class uses computer simulations to model population dynamics under different predator-prey ratios. Which two SEPs are PRIMARILY integrated in this activity?
- Asking Questions and Constructing Explanations
- Developing and Using Models and Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking (Correct answer)
- Planning Investigations and Obtaining Information
- Analyzing Data and Engaging in Argument
Correct answer: Developing and Using Models and Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
Computer simulations are models, and running them with varied parameters to observe outcomes integrates mathematical and computational thinking.
Question 5: When students 'plan and carry out investigations' in NGSS, which element distinguishes this practice from simply following a prescribed lab procedure?
- Students must use expensive laboratory equipment
- Students make decisions about variables, data collection methods, and procedure design (Correct answer)
- Students must work in groups of four or more
- Students are required to publish results in a formal report
Correct answer: Students make decisions about variables, data collection methods, and procedure design
The NGSS practice requires students to have agency in designing the investigationāchoosing variables, methods, and data collection strategiesārather than only following directions.
Question 6: Which SEP is most directly exercised when students read two competing scientific articles about the causes of coral reef bleaching and evaluate the evidence each presents?
- Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
- Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information (Correct answer)
- Asking Questions and Defining Problems
- Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
Correct answer: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information includes critically reading scientific texts and assessing the validity and sufficiency of evidence presented.
Question 7: An elementary teacher has students count and graph the types of seeds found in local fruit. This activity is BEST aligned with which SEP progression goal?
- Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking at the K-2 band (Correct answer)
- Developing and Using Models at the 3-5 band
- Constructing Explanations at the K-2 band
- Engaging in Argument from Evidence at the 3-5 band
Correct answer: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking at the K-2 band
K-2 mathematics practice includes counting, describing quantities, and simple graphing to describe natural phenomena, which matches this seed-sorting activity.
STEM Next Generation Science Standards 3
A teacher asks students to identify patterns in data from a long-term climate study and use those patterns to predict future conditions.
Which Science and Engineering Practice is MOST prominently featured?