The New York State Grades 9-12 Science Standards offer a comprehensive and rigorous framework designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for college, careers, and real-world problem-solving. Science courses emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and the application of scientific principles across various disciplines. Through inquiry-based exploration and practical experimentation, students develop a deep understanding of scientific concepts, problem-solving strategies, and the role of science in addressing global and real-world challenges.

Science Course Summaries

• Earth and Space Science: This course explores the dynamic processes shaping Earth and its place in the universe, covering topics such as geology, meteorology, astronomy, and climate science. Students analyze real-world data and models to understand natural phenomena, environmental changes, and the impact of human activities on Earth's systems.
  

• Biology (Living Environment): Focused on the study of living organisms and life processes, this course covers topics such as genetics, evolution, ecology, and human physiology. Students engage in hands-on investigations and apply scientific reasoning to explore the complexity and interconnectedness of life on Earth.
  

• Chemistry: This course examines the composition, properties, and interactions of matter, with key topics including atomic structure, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and thermodynamics. Through laboratory experiments and problem-solving, students develop a deeper understanding of the principles governing the physical world.
  

• Physics: Covering the fundamental principles of motion, forces, energy, electricity, and waves, this course provides a mathematical and conceptual understanding of the physical universe. Students apply problem-solving skills and conduct experiments to analyze real-world applications of physics concepts.

Three Dimensions of Science Learning

Throughout high school, students engage in the three dimensions of science learning (Science and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas). These three dimensions work together to develop students’ scientific understanding by engaging them in hands-on inquiry, connecting concepts across disciplines, and building deep knowledge of essential scientific principles.

1. Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) – These are skills students actively use in science, such as:

   • Asking questions and defining problems

   • Developing and using models

   • Planning and carrying out investigations

   • Analyzing and interpreting data

   • Constructing explanations and designing solutions

2. Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs) – These are big ideas that connect different areas of science, such as:

   • Identifying patterns

   • Understanding cause and effect

   • Recognizing how systems work and interact

3. Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) – These are the fundamental scientific concepts that students explore in depth:

   • Physical Sciences (PS): Chemistry and physics concepts, including matter, energy, forces, and waves

   • Life Sciences (LS): Biology topics like genetics, evolution, ecosystems, and human body systems

   • Earth and Space Sciences (ESS): Earth's systems, climate change, the solar system, and human impact on the environment

   • Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science (ETS): Engineering design and the role of science in technology and society

Why Science Education Matters

Studying science in high school helps students think critically, analyze problems, and develop solutions through experiments and projects. It enables them to make connections between different scientific disciplines and real-world applications. Whether planning for college, a STEM career, or simply becoming an informed citizen, this foundation equips students with the tools they need to understand and engage with the world around them.