Abstract: Models and modeling are
present as both a crosscutting concept and a science and engineering practice
in the NGSS (NRC, 2012, 2013). Many middle school classrooms come equipped with
the three-dimensional models such as a plant cell, the model of DNA, a globe,
and the diagram of the solar system.
Yet, there is a gap between the way scientists use models and how models
are used in science classrooms. Models
are typically used in the classroom to teach a process in a static sense.
Scientists often use models dynamically, to determine future events. For instance, hydrologists study weather
patterns to model the future supply of surface and ground water in an area, or
NASA engineers build models of the Mars rover to predict how it will perform on
Mars. Models are not complete
representations of the target phenomenon, and the strengths and limitations of
the models need to be understood.
20-Jun-2015
Dear Dr. Petrosino:
It is a pleasure to accept your manuscript entitled "Modeling Ecosystems" for publication in Science Scope. The reviewers feel it will be valuable to our readers.
When your manuscript has been slated for a specific issue of Science Scope, an editor will contact you to discuss the editing process and will work with you to get your manuscript ready for publication. During editing we will likely ask you for additional information and to make some minor changes to the text of your manuscript based on the feedback from reviewers. I have included their comments below for you to see and to anticipate how you can work with us to meet their requests - but no action is needed at this time.
Please note we are now recognizing connections in manuscripts to elements of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS 2013). If your manuscript does not include these connections you will be ask to supply them during the editing process. This likely does not require major rewriting on your part, but should include direct citations from NGSS concerning your strategies/content/activity. Be specific as to the components of NGSS you are citing and embed your references in the text of your manuscript as well as in a stand alone chart. Identify standards, performance expectations, and disciplinary core ideas by reference number/code from NGSS. Include any applicable science and engineering practices and cross cutting concepts as well. Do not include all of the practices or cross cutting concepts; rather, select only those that are most germane to the activities identified in your manuscript. . Note that we no longer use references to NSES so do not include them in your text. Limit references to the NRC K-12 Framework to information not covered in the NGSS. Consult the website below to access the NGSS.
National Research Council (NRC). (2013). The Next Generation Science Standards. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. http://www.nextgenscience.org/
Currently, we are able to publish the majority of our manuscripts within 15-18 months of acceptance. If you have any questions about the status of your manuscript or the editing process, please e-mail me at ----.
Thank you for your submission to Science Scope. We look forward to sharing it with our readers. I would be delighted to get any other middle level ideas you have.
Sincerely,
Editor, Science Scope
