INTEGRATING EARTH SCIENCES INTO HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE COURSE PATHWAY

The intent of the Framework for K-12 Science Education is to use the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to integrate Earth Science into high school science courses (biology, physical science, chemistry). Research indicates students learn science best through an integrated approach. Providing a multidisciplinary approach to learning science will provide citizens the necessary background information to make decisions about environmental and social issues. In addition, this new approach is in response to trends in industry seeking employees who bring interdisciplinary knowledge to the workplace. Arkansas high schools will, for the first time, implement integrated science courses starting with the 2018-19 school year. The pathway to graduation will now engage students in completing three integrated courses: Physical Science – Integrated, Biology – Integrated, and Chemistry – Integrated. Learn about the course development process by Arkansas educators and how earth science has been integrated into traditional high school science courses.