I would like to draw your attention to three documents that are currently on my radar as I work with schools and districts throughout the state. I know you will find these resources quite useful as you consider developing new, or revising existing courses for alignment with NGSS.

Statement of Competencies in the Natural Sciences Expected of Entering Freshman

The Inter-segmental Committee of Academic Senates (ICAS), representing the California Community Colleges, the California State University, and the University of California have collaboratively developed this long-awaited revision (last revised in 1986) on preparation in the natural sciences for K-12 Science Education.

For all intents and purposes, this document is traditionally referenced by UCOP when approving new courses for a-g consideration.

If your school/district is in the process of developing NEW NGSS-aligned courses, I HIGHLY recommend downloading this document for a reference guide!

Developing Assessments for the Next Generation Science Standards – National Research Council (NRC)

This new resource offers an innovative approach for developing science assessments that addresses the critical shifts in NGSS.

Design, Selection, and Implementation of Instructional Materials for the Next Generation Science Standards

As schools and districts ready themselves for review and selection of NGSS-aligned instructional materials, this NRC document offers key guidelines, not only for publishers as they develop new materials but also for schools and districts that plan to review and adopt NGSS-aligned curricula.