Standard: Scientific Ways of Knowing

Students realize that the current body of scientific knowledge must be based on evidence, be predictive, logical, subject to modification and limited to the natural world. This includes demonstrating an understanding that scientific knowledge grows and advances as new evidence is discovered to support or modify existing theories, as well as to encourage the development of new theories. Students are able to reflect on ethical scientific practices and demonstrate an understanding of how the current body of scientific knowledge reflects the historical and cultural contributions of women and men who provide us with a more reliable and comprehensive understanding of the natural world.

• Benchmark A: [3-5]
  Distinguish between fact and opinion and explain how ideas and conclusions change as new knowledge is gained.
  

• Benchmark B: [3-5]
  Describe different types of investigations and use results and data from investigations to provide the evidence to support explanations and conclusions.
  

• Benchmark C: [3-5]
  Explain the importance of keeping records of observations and investigations that are accurate and understandable.
  

• Benchmark D: [3-5]
  Explain that men and women of diverse countries and cultures participate in careers in all fields of science.