The Degree of Alignment of Upper Elementary Science Textbooks with Next Generation Science  Standards (NGSS)

Bint Masnad Odaib Al-Anzi,, Jawharah; Bin Jureid Hilal Al-Anzi, Dr. Jasser

doi:10.21608/jehs.2024.405667

The Degree of Alignment of Upper Elementary Science Textbooks with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

10.21608/jehs.2024.405667

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the degree to which upper elementary science textbooks align with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The study employed a descriptive-analytical methodology, with the sample comprising the entire population of science textbooks for upper elementary grades (fourth, fifth, and sixth grades) from the student edition, published in the academic year (1444 AH / 2023 AD) by the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. The study tool consisted of a content analysis checklist designed based on the NGSS, which included four main standards, three domains, and a set of indicators branching from them. The checklist used a three-level scale: (highly available, moderately available, and minimally available). The study revealed the following results: The indicators of NGSS in the content of upper elementary science textbooks varied between low and high availability. The standards of NGSS in the textbooks also showed variation between low and high alignment. Natural Sciences ranked first across all grade levels, followed by Life Sciences in second place, and Earth and Space Sciences in third place.

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