Scientific inquiry, problem solving, and the technological method provide insight into and comprehension of the world. A variety of tools, including emerging technologies, assist the inquiry processes; and models are used to aid understanding. All students will apply inquiry and problem-solving approaches in science and technology.

Scientific reasoning involves framing and supporting arguments, recognizing patterns and relationships, identifying bias and stereotypes, brainstorming alternative explanations and solutions, judging accuracy, analyzing situations, and revising studies to improve their validity. All students will learn to formulate and justify ideas and to make informed decisions.

Clear and accurate communication employs appropriate symbols and terminology, models, and a variety of media and presentation styles. Communication includes constructing knowledge through reflection, evaluation, refocusing, and critically analyzing information from a variety of sources. Both individuals and groups must learn to communicate effectively. All students will communicate effectively in the applications of science and technology.

Scientific and technological breakthroughs are influenced by prevailing beliefs and conditions which in turn are impacted by new ideas and inventions. By assessing the impacts of technological activity on the environment, one can develop his/her own sense of global stewardship. All students will understand the historical, social, economic, environmental, and ethical implications of science and technology.

Earth-and-space science is the study of the Earth, its history, changes, and place in the universe. Students will gain knowledge about (1) the Earth and processes that change it and (2) the universe and how humans have learned about it and the principles upon which it operates.

The study of biology is the study of life, including how life forms, develops, reproduces, obtains energy, and responds to the environment. The functions performed by organelles (specialized structures found in cells) within individual cells are also carried out by the organ system in multi-cellular organisms. All students are expected to understand that cells are the basic units of life and to be conversant with magnifying devices, cell structure and function, body systems, causes of disease, and the body's defense against disease. Modern classification systems are based on comparisons of the structure, function, life cycles, and behavior of organisms. All students are expected to understand that there are similarities within the diversity of all living things. Fossils show past life, extinct species, and environmental changes over time. Organisms change and new species may arise because of genetically coded adaptations. All students are expected to understand the basis for all life and the fact that all living things change over time. Energy takes many forms which can exert forces and do work. The conversion of energy from one form to another offers useful applications and sometimes presents problems. All students are expected to understand concepts of energy as they relate to the study of living things. Balance in ecosystems is based on an intricate web of relationships among populations of living organisms, as well as non-living factors such as water and temperature. Changes in specific populations or conditions affect other parts of the ecosystem. Individual systems continually change in response to human and other factors. All students are expected to understand how living things depend on one another and on non-living aspects of the environment.

The study of chemistry is the study of matter; its structure, properties, and composition; and the processes of change. Matter is made of atoms, each with its characteristic properties, which can combine to form all substances in the universe. The state and properties of matter may differ when it experiences chemical, physical, and nuclear changes. All students are expected to understand the structure of matter and the changes it can undergo.

The study of physics is the study of the basic physical laws that can be applied to all the sciences. All objects are in motion, at least at an atomic/subatomic level. By understanding how forces (e.g., gravity, friction, and magnetism) act on objects, students can predict the effects of those forces on the motion of an object. All students are expected to understand the motion of objects and the manner in which forces can change that motion. Energy takes many forms which can exert forces and do work. The conversion of energy from one form to another offers useful applications and sometimes presents problems. All students are expected to understand concepts of energy.