Illinois Vision of K-12 Science Education

Effective science teaching and learning will mean that Illinois K-12 students will be better prepared for entrance into college and careers. The ILS-Science are designed to help students acquire a deep understanding of core science and engineering content and ideas as well as experience applying that knowledge in any context. Students will demonstrate their scientific proficiency by engaging in practices that demonstrate the ability to apply scientific concepts.

Science Learning Standards

Illinois' current science standards became effective in February 2014 and are based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Forty-one experts, including three Illinois educators, wrote the NGSS. State-level committees in 26 states reviewed the learning benchmarks. These groups confirmed that the design and development of the NGSS were guided by the best available evidence to ensure that students who meet these standards are prepared for postsecondary education and careers in the 21st century. The NGSS can be viewed at 23 Illinois Administrative Code 1 Appendix D.

Illinois Learning Standards in Science:

Fact Sheet

Illinois Learning Standards in Science

Illinois Learning Standards in Science - Impact on Education & Business Community

NGSS Professional Learning

Professional Development resources

Illinois Math and Science Academy

The Illinois Math and Science Academy is pleased to provide FREE Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) professional development to K-3 science teachers across the State of Illinois. Teachers will participate in a two-day immersive experience engaging in model science lessons, the significant shifts with NGSS, and a deeper understanding of three-dimensional teaching. All teachers will receive the needed supplies and manipulatives to immediately implement these lessons and give NGSS science a try today!

Professional Development sessions will be offered in Springfield, Aurora, and a location in Southern Illinois to be determined. Additional details are provided on the registration form. Space is limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign Up Here.
NGSS EQuIP Professional Learning Facilitator’s Guide

The NGSS EQuIP Professional Learning Facilitator’s Guide is a series of 10 modules designed to build capacity for teachers and administration for understanding the NGSS and use of the EQuIP Rubric for Science. The EQuIP Rubric is a tool used to review science lessons and units to determine alignment to the ILS-Science.