Standards/Curriculum

What are our students learning, and how is that learning measured? The following links provide answers. Over the coming weeks and months, we will be adding to and improving these resources.

Core curriculum science materials, aligned by grade level and unit of study (PDF)

NYC K-8 Science Scope and Sequence (2008)

NYC High School Science Regents Scope and Sequence (2007)

New York City Performance Standards

New York State Science Core Curricula

Sample test questions, and other relevant resources

Starting in September 2007, NYC schools will implement one of three approved instructional approaches and programs, all of which meet State standards and the City’s new K-8 Science Scope and Sequence for science instruction and curriculum:

• Delta FOSS Kits and Delta Science Modules in grades K-5
• Delta FOSS kits and Lab-Aids Kits in grades 6-8

Textbook Approach

• Harcourt’s Science in grades K-5
• Glencoe’s New York Science in grades 6-8

Blended Approach

• A combination of the grade-appropriate kits and textbook modules, plus the Accelerated eighth grade program (Holt, Rhinehart, Winston textbook)

The Department of Education (DOE) is phasing in the new science core curriculum in grades 3, 4, and 6 during the 2007-08 school year and in kindergarten and grades 1, 2, 5, 7, and 8 during the 2008-09 school year.

Schools that want to use the approved alternates will not be subject to any performance or other requirements; they only need to identify which program they plan to use. Schools that choose to use the approved alternates will order their own materials and organize their own professional development. The approved alternates are:

• MacMilllan McGraw-Hill Science for grades K-5;
• Prentice Hall Science Explorer for grades 6-8; and
• PBIS for grades 6-8

Schools that want to use materials beyond the approved alternates may submit a waiver application to the Deputy Chancellor of Teaching and Learning. Schools must show evidence that their program is effective.