The NAEP science assessment measures students' knowledge of three broad content areas—physical science, life science, and Earth and space sciences—and four science practices—identifying science principles, using science principles, using scientific inquiry, and using technological design. These four practices describe how students use their science knowledge by measuring what they are able to do with the science content.
NAEP science results are reported as average scores on a 0-300 scale and as the percentage of students performing at or above three achievement levels (Basic, Proficient, and Advanced). Performance results at grades 4, 8, and 12 will be reported for the nation overall and for selected student demographic groups, such as race/ethnicity, gender, and National School Lunch Program (NSLP) eligibility. In addition, results will be reported for 47 participating jurisdictions at grades 4 and 8. 2015 science results will be compared to results from 2009 at grades 4 and 12, and compared to 2011 and 2009 at grade 8.
