Earth Science: Make it Happen
arth science has been part of the curriculum in American schools for more than 100 years. Yet many people still think that biology,
chemistry, and physics constitute a complete science education. In the 21st
Century, that attitude is changing.
The National Science Education Standards and the Benchmarks for Science Literacy define science literacy and reaffirm the centrality of Earth science in education. The Standards promote the idea that Earth science should be taught in parity with biology, chemistry, and physics as part of the country’s national strategy for science literacy. Earth science education
enhances our understanding and appreciation of critical issues that affect every state, so it is imperative that students in every state graduate with a thorough understanding of Earth science.
In recent years, 49 states have established science learning standards — outlining what students must know and be able to do. In every case, these standards emphasize the importance of Earth science in producing well-rounded literate citizens. State science frameworks across the country note that Earth science is
necessary for all students and that schools should include Earth science topics in the curriculum from kindergarten through grade 12.
To understand how state educational systems have applied standards for Earth science content, AGI conducts annual national assessments of K–12 Earth science education. Our research shows how far we have come, and how much more work
we have to do to improve Earth science education. Highlights of our studies demonstrate growing emphasis on Earth science education. Nearly fifty percent of
all states include Earth science content in state-mandated high school exams, and thirty-seven states count Earth science courses towards high school
graduation requirements.
Education is a local and state-based issue. We need your support and assistance to ensure Earth science education is appropriately incorporated
across the country. You need to contact your local school administration to determine if Earth science is an option for core-credit science
courses at the high school level, and to see if elementary schools and middle schools teach and assess Earth science.
To learn more about how you can support Earth science education in your state’s schools, or to obtain additional
copies of this brochure to distribute to educators in your state, please contact AGI at (703) 379-2480 or
education@agiweb.org.