Pennsylvania’s Science Standard and Open Sci-Ed Comes to Valley View BY ANTHONY MAURIZIO

The science curriculum in Pennsylvania is distinct from that of other states. While several states follow the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Pennsylvania has transitioned to its own framework: the STEELS standards. STEELS stands for Science, Technology & Engineering, & Environmental Literacy & Sustainability Standards. Each section of the STEELS covers something that will help students learn science. STEELS focuses on the interactions among technology, engineering, society, and the environment, intending to develop individuals who can create, utilize, and assess current and emerging technologies, while also covering ecological processes and systems that comprise the environment, including human social systems and their influences. Valley View uses Open-Sci Ed to teach students because OSE is specifically aligned with PA’s STEELS requirements. Open-Sci Ed is a free curriculum that provides instructional materials like slideshows, while physical equipment for labs is paid for by the district. OSE was introduced to the science department at the end of the last school year. Teachers were provided with training and instruction on how to implement it effectively. This year, OSE is in the final stage of a full curriculum pilot across both science 9 and biology. There are also plans on incorporating it into Chemistry classes as well. Before the implementation of OSE and the STEELS, science in the classroom was significantly different. Previously, science classes were textbook-based, relying on memorization to prepare for tests. Science classes also used to be more aligned with Keystone Exams; what was taught in science class would be similar to questions found on those tests. Science teachers would also make changes based on student performance and continue to practice skills until specific concepts were mastered. STEELS and OSE have changed the science classroom in many ways. Science is now taught using an inquiry-based approach where students are expected to “turn and talk” to each other to further develop their knowledge. While the Keystone Exam that students took this semester was not yet updated to reflect STEELS or OSE, beginning next semester, the exams will shift to be more closely based on these new standards. Ultimately, Pennsylvania’s adoption of STEELS represents a shift toward a more interactive way of learning. With Open-Sci Ed acting as the primary curriculum, students can expect a different approach, but one that will prepare them for the ever changing landscape of science, technology, and the environment.