Science is the use of evidence to construct testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena, as well as the knowledge generated through this process. Science and engineering are significant parts of human culture and represent many of the pinnacles of human achievement. Not only is learning about the world around us important, science and engineering can improve people's lives in significant ways. In order to make informed decisions, it is imperative that we have knowledge of science to help with those decisions. Many of the challenges we face today are rooted in science, and it is important that we focus on the need for science and engineering professionals to keep Pennsylvania competitive in both the national and international arenas.
Learning experiences for students, from PreK through high school must actively engage students in the scientific practices to deepen their understanding of the core ideas in the sciences. These investigations must engage students with questions about the world and how scientists have investigated and answered questions.
In Pennsylvania schools, it is our expectation that all students have experiences within all areas of science, which include the Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Earth and Space Science.