You are here

Science

Web banner for science


Science Education Updates


Graphic for academic standards for science

Academic Standards

The revised Colorado Academic Standards for Science reflect a new vision for science education that connects scientific knowledge, in authentic ways, to real-world problem solving and innovation. The standards forefront scientific practices that use and go beyond the inquiry process to arrive at reasoned and justifiable rationales for interpretations of phenomena/events. Colorado's standards were developed by committee, and are framed around  A Framework for K-12 Science Education, released by the National Research Council (NRC) in 2012. The Framework leverages over 20 years of research in science education to identify key scientific ideas and practices all students should learn by the end of high school.

Graphic for curriculum support for science

Curriculum Support

Article IX, Section 16 of Colorado's constitution states, "Neither the general assembly nor the state board of education shall have power to prescribe textbooks to be used in the public schools." However, CDE can still serve as an advisor to help districts and schools adopt, adapt, develop, or use the materials of their choice. 

Graphic for instructional support for science

Instructional Support

Colorado's 2020 Science Standards support a three-dimensional model of science teaching and learning. Instructional support is grounded in CDE's shared approach to Best, First Instruction as well as practices and strategies supported by professional organizations and scholars at the leading edge of science education. Learn more about ways to support high-quality and equitable learning in the science classroom. 

Graphic for community for science

Community

There are many opportunities to connect and grow as a professional educator with the larger science education community, including mailing lists, professional organizations, awards and grants, and events. 


Additional Information 

Learn more about CMAS Science here.


For further assistance, please contact:

Samantha Messier

messier_s@cde.state.co.us


For website assistance in Science, please contact  CDE's Director of Standards and Instructional Support, Samantha Messier, messier_s@cde.state.co.us