Alaska Science
Key Element D2

A student who meets the content standard should understand that scientific innovations may affect our economy, safety, environment, health, and society and that these effects may be short-term or long-term, positive or negative, and expected or unexpected.

Performance Standard Level 3, Ages 11–14

Students describe the unexpected effects, both positive and negative and short- and long-term, of a discovery, invention, or scientific breakthrough.

Sample Assessment Ideas

• Students examine the effect of snow tire restrictions (or removing the restrictions) on the state and local economy, and the safety and health of Alaskans.

• Students examine and report on how technology has affected them locally (e.g., northern cold-climate adapted seeds, new monofilament fishing net, Global Positioning System for hunting).

Standards Cross-References
( Alaska Department of Education & Early Development Standards)

National Science Education Standards

Scientific inquiry and technological design have similarities and differences. Scientists propose explanations for questions about the natural world, and engineers propose solutions relating to human problems, needs, and aspirations. Technological solutions are temporary; technologies exist within nature and so they cannot contravene physical or biological principles; technological solutions have side-effects; and technologies cost, carry risks, and provide benefits. (Page 166)

Technological solutions have intended benefits and unintended consequences. Some consequences can be predicted, others cannot. (Page 166)

Technology influences society through its products and processes. Technology influences the quality of life and the ways people act and interact. Technological changes are often accompanied by social, political, and economic changes that can be beneficial or detrimental to individuals and to society. Social needs, attitudes, and values influence the direction of technological development. (Page 169)

Science and technology have advanced through contributions of many different people, in different cultures, at different times in history. Science and technology have contributed enormously to economic growth and productivity among societies and groups within societies. (Page 169)

Science cannot answer all questions and technology cannot solve all human problems or meet all human needs. Students should understand the difference between scientific and other questions. They should appreciate what science and technology can reasonably contribute to society and what they cannot do. For example, new technologies often will decrease some risks and increase others. (Page 169)

Benchmarks

Engineers, architects, and others who engage in design and technology use scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. But they usually have to take human values and limitations into account as well. (Page 46)

New technologies increase some risks and decrease others. Some of the same technologies that have improved the length and quality of life for many people have also brought new risks. (Page 56)