STANDARD 5.2 (Science and Society) — All students will develop an understanding of how people of various cultures have contributed to the advancement of science and technology, and how major discoveries and events have advanced science and technology.

DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENT: Science is a human endeavor involving successes and failures, trials and tribulations. Students should know that many people of all cultures have contributed to our understanding of science and that science has a rich and fascinating history. This standard encourages students to learn about the people and events that have shaped or revolutionized important scientific theories and concepts.

CUMULATIVE PROGRESS INDICATORS: Building upon knowledge and skills gained in the preceding grades, by the end of Grade 12, students will...

1. Cultural Contributions
   1. Recognize the role of the scientific community in responding to changing social and political conditions and how scientific and technological achievement effect historical events.
2.  Historical Perspectives
   1. Examine the lives and contributions of important scientists who effected major breakthroughs in our understanding of the natural and designed world.
   2. Discuss significant technological achievements in which science has played an important part as well as technological advances that have contributed directly to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
   3. Describe the historical origin of important scientific developments such as atomic theory, genetics, plate tectonics, etc., showing how scientific theories develop, are tested, and can be replaced or modified in light of new information and improved investigative techniques.