Chapter 1 The Teaching of Science: Contemporary Challenges
tHE tEACHING OF SCIENCE: 21 st-CENTURY PERSPECTIVES 11
Table 1.1
BSCS Science: An Inquiry Approach Framework for Grades 9–11
Major Concepts Addressed at Each Grade Level
Units Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11
Science as
InquiryQuestions and
concepts that
guide scientific
investigationsDesign of scientific
investigations
Communicating
scientific resultsEvidence as
the basis for
explanations and
models
Alternative
explanations and
models
Physical
ScienceStructure and
properties of matter
Structure of atoms
Integrating chapterMotions and forces
Chemical reactions
Integrating chapterInteractions of
energy and matter
Conservation
of energy and
increase in
disorder
Integrating chapter
Life Science Cell structure and
function
Behavior of
organisms
Integrating chapterBiological evolution
Molecular basis of
heredity
Integrating chapterMatter, energy,
and organization of
living systems
Interdependence of
organisms
Integrating chapter
Earth-Space
ScienceOrigin and evolution
of the universe
Origin and evolution
of the Earth system
Integrating chapterGeochemical cycles
Integrating chapterEnergy in the Earth
system
Integrating chapterScience in
a Personal
and Social
Perspective;
Science and
TechnologyPersonal and
community health
Natural and human-
induced hazards
Abilities of
technological designPopulation growth
Natural resources
Environmental qualityScience and
technology in local,
national and global
challenges
Understandings
about science and
technologyResearch on Teaching
Although well-designed and sequential instructional materials can enhance
student learning, they cannot do it all. The interaction between teachers and
students is the key. Incorporating an instructional model into the instructional
materials brings the materials as close as possible to facilitating the best inter-
action between teachers and students.
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