Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

What are the Next Generation Science Standards and how do they impact science learning in Seattle Schools?

Our curriculum is based on the  Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) that were adopted by Washington state in 2013. NGSS recognizes that 21st century skills involve a deep understanding of Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas (content), and Crosscutting Concepts that apply to all scientific disciplines. This shift in practice moves us towards a pedagogy that focuses on “figuring out instead of telling about.” 

External Links to NGSS Resources

• Pedagogical Shifts and Look Fors in the NGSS
• Understanding the Standards
• How to Read a Standard
• NGSS Parent Guides
• Family Q&A from National Science Teachers Association
• How Today’s Students Learn Science(infographic from NSTA)

Related NGSS Information from Seattle Public Schools

• SPS High School Science Alignment
• 2019 Science Instructional Materials A

Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS)

The Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS) is administered at 5th, 8th, and 11th grade. These tests fulfill the federal (ESSA) requirement that students be tested in science once at each level: elementary, middle, and high school. 

What Will Be Assessed?

The WCAS measures the level of proficiency that Washington students have achieved based on the Washington State 2013 K-12 Science Learning Standards, known nationally as  Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) which were adopted in WA in October 2013.

The standards are organized into four domains:

• Physical Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Earth and Space Sciences
• Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science

Each domain has three-dimensional performance expectations that integrate science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and crosscutting concepts. House Bill 1450 supports the transition from a Biology End-of-Course assessment to a “more comprehensive science assessment” (HB 1450, p.9) in high school that includes all four domains and integrates all 3 dimensions of the new science standards.

Test Design and Item Specifications

The test will be administered on computers using the same online engine as the Smarter Balanced assessments. There will be a combination of Multiple Choice, Technology Enhanced (for example, drag and drop, drop-down choices, simulations, graphing) and Short Answer questions that test a student on all three dimensions of the NGSS: Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Crosscutting Concepts.

Details about the test design, item specifications, training tests, and further information is available at the  OSPI Science Assessment Page.