scienceunderstanding
Science understanding is the integrated ability to explain natural phenomena using scientific concepts, to reason with evidence, and to anticipate outcomes of experiments and observations. It combines factual knowledge, conceptual frameworks, procedural skills, and an awareness of how science learns. A person with strong science understanding can articulate why a claim is supported by data, recognize uncertainty, and apply scientific ideas to novel situations. The term is sometimes written as science-understanding or as science understanding.
It encompasses both domain-general skills—such as critical thinking, data interpretation, and model-based reasoning—and domain-specific knowledge in
Educators pursue science understanding through explanations, modeling, inquiry, and discussion aimed at correcting misconceptions and building
Assessment of science understanding uses tests, performance tasks, and portfolios that probe explanation, data analysis, and
Overall, science understanding is central to education and informed citizenship. It supports the ability to evaluate