Science

At Highland Park Independent School District, we believe science ignites intellectual curiosity through collaboration, problem-solving, and persistence.  Science is a fluid body of knowledge, one that reflects our current understanding of the world and the practices we use to build and refine it over time.  HPISD engages in high-quality, research-based practices in K-12 Science to ensure that students develop not only strong science and engineering practices, but also the ability to understand and apply core science concepts. 

Three-Dimensional Learning (3D)

To achieve this vision, every HPISD science classroom teaches through three-dimensional (3D) learning.  This approach integrates three critical components: Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs), Recurring Themes and Concepts (RTCs), and Science Core Content (TEKS).  Utilizing 3D learning, students actively learn scientific concepts, developing the vital skills necessary to apply these concepts through active investigation and hands-on problem solving.  

Phenomena Driven Learning

In HPISD science classrooms, real-world phenomena anchor every lesson. Rather than simply learning about a topic, students actively investigate why or how something happens. As students work to make sense of these observable events, they develop deep scientific ideas while simultaneously engaging in SEPs and viewing the problem through the lens of the RTCs. 

The 5E Instructional Model

HPISD science classrooms are firmly grounded in the 5E instructional model, which creates a continuous cycle of inquiry.  Through the 5E model, students engage directly with phenomena, explore and explain their thinking, and continually deepen their understanding of the natural world.  Within this model, students are expected to communicate their reasoning using precise scientific language, helping them build the confidence and competence required to engage in meaningful scientific discourse throughout their education and beyond.

Scientific Discourse

Scientific discourse is integral to 3D learning, requiring a collaborative classroom environment where all students feel empowered to share their ideas and questions.  Discourse serves as a powerful sense-making tool enabling students to integrate individual pieces of evidence to develop a comprehensive scientific understanding.  Throughout this process, students are given numerous opportunities to process information by clarifying, justifying, and interpreting their ideas through dialogue, ultimately deepening their critical reasoning.