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Identify what is science, what clearly is not science, and what superficially resembles science (but fails to meet the criteria for science).
Standard #: SC.912.N.2.1
Standard Information
General Information
Subject Area: Science
Grade: 912
Body of Knowledge: Nature of Science
Idea: Level 3: Strategic Thinking & Complex Reasoning
Standard: The Characteristics of Scientific Knowledge -

A: Scientific knowledge is based on empirical evidence, and is appropriate for understanding the natural world, but it provides only a limited understanding of the supernatural, aesthetic, or other ways of knowing, such as art, philosophy, or religion.

B: Scientific knowledge is durable and robust, but open to change.

C: Because science is based on empirical evidence it strives for objectivity, but as it is a human endeavor the processes, methods, and knowledge of science include subjectivity, as well as creativity and discovery.
Date Adopted or Revised: 02/08
Content Complexity Rating: Level 3: Strategic Thinking & Complex Reasoning - More Information
Date of Last Rating: 05/08
Status: State Board Approved
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Lesson Plan
  • Measuring with Inchworms # Students will measure the length of objects using non-standard units and report the length shown by the number of non-standard objects needed. Students will explore laying non-standard units end to end with no gaps and overlaps. Students will listen to the book Inch by Inch.
Original Student Tutorial
  • Defining Science # Learn how to define what science is and what it is not. In this interactive tutorial, you will identify why certain ways of exploring the universe can and cannot be considered scientific practices.
Perspectives Video: Experts
Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast
Teaching Idea
  • CONPTT - SCIENCE vs NON-SCIENCE # Explores six criteria of science (CONPTT), with definitions and self-check questions. Compares "Emerging Science", "Non-Science", and "Pseudoscience", with definitions and examples. Activity engages students in analyzing a collection of paragraphs to decide which category each fits into.
Text Resource
  • The Weird, Wild World of Citizen Science is Already Here # This informational text resource is intended to support reading in the content area. This article describes the collision course between citizens and scientists as "makers" and "hobbyists" begin aiding and supplementing the scientific community more and more. The article gives many examples of amateurs helping out on active projects, especially when science cannot dedicate the hours or money necessary to complete them.
Original Student Tutorials Science - Grades 9-12
  • Defining Science # Learn how to define what science is and what it is not. In this interactive tutorial, you will identify why certain ways of exploring the universe can and cannot be considered scientific practices.
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