SEP: Asking Questions and Defining ProblemsThe Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) are designed to develop student's deeper understanding of science by engaging in the actual work of science and engineering. One of the eight SEPs requires students to ask questions and define problems. Students at any grade level should be able to ask questions of each other about the texts they read, the features of the phenomena they observe, and the conclusions they draw from their models or scientific investigations. For engineering, they should ask questions to define the problem to be solved and to elicit ideas that lead to the constraints and specifications for its solution (NRC Framework 2012, p, 56). With our instructional practice shifting, we should be providing many opportunities for students to ask questions within our curriculum These questions can not only be used to foster engagement, but can help drive instruction and promote concept attainment. In the video below, a teacher from Montana explains the SEP: Asking Questions and Defining Problems. |
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December 2021
AuthorCari Williams has been developing her understanding of The Framework for K-12 Science Teaching and the NGSS through the development of curriculum, collaborative learning experiences with NSTA 3D Learning Cadre Members and as a Science Peer Review Panelist for Achieve. To learn more, please go to |