Science is a way of knowing and experiencing the natural world. It is both a social and intellectual endeavor that provides the foundation for life-long informed decision-making, problem-solving, improved, quality of life and technological advances. Learning science is an active process, and all students, grades Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12, should have access to challenging relevant, exciting, "hands-on," content-rich science experiences.

The science curriculum provides opportunities for students to develop knowledge and an understanding of scientific ideas, as well as an understanding of how scientists study the real world. This is done through scientific inquiry – a multidimensional process that involves making observations, posing questions, planning investigations and using tools to gather, analyze, and interpret data. At all stages of inquiry, teachers guide, focus, challenge and encourage student learning and science exploration.

Student learning in science and in other subject areas is enhanced when science is properly integrated in an unforced and natural way. This integration occurs within the scientific disciplines and across other content areas. To facilitate learning, teachers use a variety of teaching strategies including cooperative learning and student research. Effective science instruction is supported by on-going professional development opportunities for teachers to share, model, learn, and keep abreast of best practices and research-based findings that lead to increased student achievement, interest, and motivation in science.

Project CLEAR: Science Grades K-8, Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), and Biology documents have been developed and should be in the hands of teachers. These documents specify key science content to be taught, describe instructional and assessment considerations, include scientific processes and other content connections, and empower teachers and campuses to make the best instructional decisions for their student populations. Project CLEAR: Science Chemistry and Project CLEAR: Science Physics will be developed during the 2000-2001 school year and available for Fall 2001 school start-up.