California Framework for the Next Generation Science Standards

Abstract:

In September 2013, the California State Board of Education approved a revision to the state's science education standards, adopting the Next Generation Science Standards for the nation's most populous state. That action began a multi-year transition process that is ongoing. While the standards have been formally adopted, instructional materials and assessments that align with these standards have not yet been approved by the state. The approval process includes adopting a framework document that lays out the criteria for insructional materials and provides guidance to districts and teachers about how NGSS can be implemented effectively (not to be confused with the 2012 NRC Framework document). This document is currently available in draft form and has been approved by an appointed subcommittee, will undergo two periods of public comment, and is expected to be finalized by September 2016. We provide a summary of the process California is taking to implement NGSS, present highlights of the current document, and give a summary of the first public comment period.