What is NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards)
NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) are a set of rigorous, research-based K–12 science education standards that emphasize three-dimensional learning including disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science and engineering practices.
NGSS stands for Next Generation Science Standards. They are a set of rigorous, research-based K–12 science education standards released in 2013 that were developed by 26 lead states in collaboration with the National Research Council (NRC), the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and Achieve. NGSS represents the most comprehensive reform of science education standards in decades and has been adopted by more than 20 states.
The Three Dimensions of NGSS
NGSS is built around three-dimensional learning — the integration of three distinct types of knowledge and skills:
Dimension 1: Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs)
The foundational concepts in each science discipline that have broad importance and application:
- Physical Science — Matter and energy, motion and forces, waves
- Life Science — Ecosystems, heredity, evolution
- Earth and Space Science — Earth's systems, climate, space
- Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science — Engineering design process
Dimension 2: Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs)
Concepts that apply across all science disciplines and help students make connections:
- Patterns
- Cause and Effect
- Scale, Proportion, and Quantity
- Systems and System Models
- Energy and Matter
- Structure and Function
- Stability and Change
Dimension 3: Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs)
What scientists and engineers actually do — not just knowing facts, but doing science:
- Asking questions and defining problems
- Developing and using models
- Planning and carrying out investigations
- Analyzing and interpreting data
- Using mathematics and computational thinking
- Constructing explanations and designing solutions
- Engaging in argument from evidence
- Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
How NGSS Differs from Previous Standards
| Previous Standards | NGSS |
|---|---|
| Memorize science facts | Apply science practices |
| Content only | Three-dimensional (content + practices + concepts) |
| Separate subjects | Integrated science disciplines |
| Engineering = separate (if present) | Engineering integrated throughout |
| Assessments tested recall | Assessments test applying three dimensions |
NGSS and Climate Change
NGSS explicitly includes climate change as a core disciplinary idea in Earth and Space Science, which has been a source of political controversy in some states.