Author Description

In 1985-86, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) will undertake the fifth national assessment of science knowledge, skills, and attitudes in 9-, 13-, and 17-year old Americans. The science objectives have been developed and reviewed by committees of scientists and educators. The objectives presented in this document are grouped into three categories: (1) content--life sciences; physics; chemistry; earth and space sciences; history of science; and nature of science; (2) context--scientific; personal; societal; and technological; (3) cognition--knowledge; application; and integration; and (4) attitudes--toward science classes; career and educational objectives; socioscientific responsibility; science as a personal tool; value of science; societal issues; and experiences in science. A number of topics are presented with an indication of their appropriateness for testing students aged 9, 13, or 17. Ten sample questions are also appended. (GDC)