The proposed California science standards are under organized attack. There is too much content, the foes will say, or They're too hard for our kids.
The real issue has to do with the "verbs" used.
Opponents want the standards document to reflect a particular view of science pedagogy. Basically, they want inquiry science, the name that discovery learning (or project-centered learning, etc.) takes in the science education venue.
Clarity and specificity, which require that students learn particular contents in science, are anathema to this constructivist view. Thus, every time the draft Standards spell out some particular aspect for students to learn, responsibility for content threatens the inquiry-only fans.
It is critical that all of us - mathematicians, scientists, parents, students, community members, take a hard look at these standards and provide an independent and honest evaluation to the Standards commission.
If you prefer that students actually learn some science, then read the Science Standards Draft and send your comments and support by e-mail to comments@asc.ca.gov.