Should you throw your old computer into the trash?

What can you do to reduce the risk of getting food poisoning?

How can releasing your unwanted pet into the wild affect the environment?

These are the types of personal and societal issues that SEPUP uses to engage students in the study of science. Students are provided with some evidence about the issue at hand, but they often realize that they have more questions than answers. These new questions are addressed in a series of science activities that introduce and teach relevant science concepts. Eventually, students apply their new science knowledge to re-considering the issue.

The goals of issue-oriented science are:

• to engage students in the process of learning science

• to encourage students to use scientific evidence to make decisions

• to help educate tomorrow's citizens about the application of science to everyday life.

SEPUP curriculum does not advocate a particular position on issues, but encourages students to support their views with relevant evidence. SEPUP select issues that:

• require an understanding of important scientific concepts and processes

• require an application of evidence

• are interesting and accessible to diverse groups of students

• are complex enough to foster discussion and debate

Looking for a specific example? Check out our Curricular Materials.

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