National Science Education Standards

CURIOUS CRITTERS teaches students about science in specific ways outlined by experts from across the nation. In 1996 the National Research Council adopted standards developed by the National Committee on Science Education Standards and Assessment. NRC standards are utilized by states in establishing guidelines for science education.

CURIOUS CRITTERS helps develop scientific literacy by addressing ALL Life Sciences standards and many other science standards established by the NRC.

Grades K - 4
The ideas presented in CURIOUS CRITTERS address ALL Life Science Standards of the National Science Education Standards for grades K - 4.
•    characteristics of organisms
•    life cycles of organisms
•    organisms and environments

CURIOUS CRITTERS examines aspects of four additional K - 4 National Science Education Standards:
•    Science as Inquiry
•    Science and Technology
•    Science in Personal and Social Perspectives
•    History and Nature of Science


Grades 5 - 8
The ideas presented in CURIOUS CRITTERS address ALL Life Science Standards of the National Science Education Standards for grades 5 - 8.
•    Structure and function in living systems
•    Reproduction and heredity
•    Regulation and behavior
•    Populations and ecosystems
•    Diversity and adaptations of organisms

CURIOUS CRITTERS examines aspects of four additional 5-8 National Science Education Standards:
•    Science as Inquiry
•    Science and Technology
•    Science in Personal and Social Perspectives
•    History and Nature of Science

from "National Science Education Standards." National Research Council. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press, 1996. pp. 121-171.

CURIOUS CRITTER: Eastern screech-owl (left).