Scientifically-literate persons will be able to respond to change, will know when, where, and how to formulate opinions, and will function effectively in an increasingly complex and technological world. Systems, patterns, and change are examples of common themes inherent in the investigations made in all disciplines. Most ideas are not isolated, but are found in a context that transcends disciplinary boundaries. Knowledge that is connected and useful expands the understanding of an idea. The understanding of multifaceted problems is enhanced when explored from the perspectives of history, art, mathematics, language arts, and the social sciences.
Technology pervades all of the disciplines and is an integral part of the total picture.
Acquiring a common core of scientific knowledge and understanding, including a framework of organized conceptual information, will enable students to think through problems. Educators, undertaking the task of curriculum development and revision, are forced to make difficult decisions and identify the most important ideas in science. Educators must concentrate on the quality of understanding rather than the quantity of information learned. The role of science educators is to help children develop the skills of observing, interpreting and questioning as they investigate natural phenomena and probe the nature of the physical and living world. Fostering a child's natural curiosity encourages the student to ask questions about the natural world.