On November 6, 2013, the SBE approved the Science Expert Panel’s (SEP) recommended Integrated Learning Progression model as the preferred model for middle grades six through eight. At the same November meeting, the SBE approved a recommendation by the SSPI to reconvene the SEP in order “to develop… as an alternative model… a discipline specific model” for the grade span of six through eight based on Achieve’s domains model in Appendix K.

In December 2013, the SEP reconvened to develop an alternative domain specific course model.

The documents below provide middle school educators the rationale for the CA NGSS Integrated Learning Progression Course for middle grades six through eight and the Alternative Discipline Specific Course for grades six through eight. The documents also describe learning progressions for each grade level.

Integrated Learning Progression Model (PDF)

This document provides middle school educators the rationale for the Integrated Learning Progression Course arrangement of standards developed by the California Science Expert Panel. Documents containing the standards for each grade level are below.

Discipline Specific Model (PDF)

This document provides middle school educators the rationale for the Discipline Specific Course arrangement. Documents containing the standards for each grade level are below.

Integrated Model Standards Arranged by Disciplinary Core Ideas

• Grade 6 by Disciplinary Core Ideas (PDF)

• Grade 7 by Disciplinary Core Ideas (PDF)

• Grade 8 by Disciplinary Core Ideas (PDF)

Integrated CA NGSS Storylines by Grade

• Grade 6 Integrated NGSS Storyline (PDF)

• Grade 7 Integrated NGSS Storyline (PDF)

• Grade 8 Integrated NGSS Storyline (PDF)

Discipline Specific Model Standards

• Earth Science Course: Grade 6 (PDF)

• Life Science Course: Grade 7 (PDF)

• Physical Science Course: Grade 8 (PDF)

For information on how to read the standards and implement the standards, please read How to Read CA NGSS(PDF) or consult the 2016 Science Framework or visit the Adopting and Implementing NGSS page. 

For more information, see: NGSS for California Public Schools, K-12 - Science (CA Dept of Education).

For questions about the CA NGSS and 2016 Science Framework, contact Kelley Ambriz, Instructional Services, Division of Educational Services, at kambriz@rcoe.us or (951) 249-8800.