Webster Central School District 6-12 Science Time of the Phoenix November 8, 2022
The Nature of Science Nature of science is the foundation of scientific literacy that enhances students’ understandings of science concepts and enables them to make informed decisions about scientifically-based personal and societal issues. Science is not a body of knowledge, but an ongoing process where students try to understand the natural world through the use of process skills and evidence to support claims.
Webster Science by the Numbers 6-12 science teachers 6-12 number of science classes offered Students in college level science courses Most popular elective - astronomy, environmental science, forensics, general chemistry, photonics.
Dynamic Science Department Webster Science Department celebrates its diversity of experience. Years in Webster CSD
% of Department
Less than 5 years
35%
5-20 years
32%
20 +
33%
What are the new NYSSLS / NGSS? NYSED has adopted new Science Standards, the New York State Science Learning Standards, NYSSLS, these standards are based on the national Next Generation Science Standards, NGSS.
NYSSLS Standards are 3 Dimensional Students who demonstrate understanding can: MS-ESS1-1. Develop and use a model of the Earth-Sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the Sun and moon, and seasons.
How are the Standards used to guide classroom instruction? Teachers use the learning standards - which represent the overall knowledge and skills students need to learn by the end of each school year - to develop targeted student learning which includes the curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
New NYSED Assessments June 2024
Grade 5 Grade 8
June 2025
Biology Earth and Space Science
June 2026
Chemistry Physics
NEW NYSED Science Changes 1,200 Lab Minutes (for Science Regents Courses) can now be completed using BOTH Hands-On and simulated experiences, including virtual laboratory experiences. Computer Based Testing Required for new Grade 5 and 8 science assessments in June 2024 (also ELA and Math) 3D Assessments (written Tests) All new science assessments will be written align to the new NYSSLS and 3 Dimensional (incorporating the Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas and Crosscutting Concepts) Investigations (mini labs / lessons) Required Investigations must be given to students prior to taking the Elementary or Intermediate-level Science Tests. At least 15% of the questions on the written test will measure content related to the Investigations.
Webster CSD Implementation of the NEW NYSSLS The new NYSSLS encourages science to be taught through the use of various instructional approaches using the Science and Engineering Practices and Crosscutting Concepts… POGILS Case Studies Phenomena Modeling Labs Simulations
Flipped classrooms Storylines Claim Evidence Reasoning Student Choice Investigations Project Based
Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning. It is a student-centered, instructional strategy where students work in small teams to work through specially designed activities that have three key characteristics: 1. 2. 3.
They are designed for use with self-managed teams that employ the instructor as a facilitator of learning rather than a source of information. They guide students through an exploration to construct understanding. They use discipline content to facilitate the development of important process skills, including higher-level thinking and the ability to learn and to apply knowledge in new contexts.
Student Choice In this instructional approach students get to choose how they will engage in their learning. Yes they get to choose!!!
The Dynamic Webster Science Department is working to learn the new science learning standards and to develop innovative ways to engage students in learning that helps them to be educated decision makers and college and career ready.
Thank You! Questions?