Tools of Science

Connect to the Next Generation Science Standards

The ‘Tools of Science’ brings the Science and Engineering Practices to life. Our objectives are to:

  • Engage students in exploring the scientific skills, knowledge, and creativity required to be an effective scientist, framed within the context of contemporary science.
  • Pair the interdisciplinary core ideas, cross-cutting concepts and science and engineering practices with examples of real-world implementation of science.

The videos and associated materials have been produced in close to support the implementation of the Framework for K–12 Science Education and in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The long-term aim of this project is to produce material to complement each of the 8 NGSS practices (shown below). Content for Practices 3 and 8 has been developed and is currently available. Material for the other practices is currently under development.

NGSS Practices

  1. Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering)
  2. Developing and using models
  3. Planning and carrying out investigations
  4. Analyzing and interpreting data
  5. Using mathematics and computational thinking
  6. Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)
  7. Engaging in argument from evidence
  8. Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Explore the NGSS Science and Engineering Practices: Science and Engineering Practices in the NGSS

Practice 1
Asking Questions & Defining Problems

Practice 2
Developing & Using Models

Listen to Dr. Mick Follows Ocean Gazing Podcast to explore the characteristics of scientific models.

Practice 3
Planning & Carrying Out Investigations

Sampling in Scientific Investigations: Students learn how scientists collect samples to represent a larger population to answer and understand a scientific question.

Proxies in Scientific Investigations: Students learn what a scientific proxy is and how using proxies allows us to measure parts of the world we cannot directly observe.

Practice 8
Obtaining, Evaluating, & Communicating Information

Obtaining, Evaluating, & Communicating Information Collaborations in Scientific Investigations: We explore how scientists work together to answer scientific questions.