Benchmarks for Science Literacy on Disk

When Benchmarks for Science Literacy was first published, Bruce Alberts, president of the National Academy of Sciences praised it as "another milestone in the long standing effort of Project 2061 to improve the teaching and learning of science for all Americans." Now, the monumentalachievement of Benchmarks for Science Literacy is available in a computer disk format for use on IBM-compatible personal computers in MS-DOS. This superb science learning tool enables users to browse, assemble, and print benchmarks in various formats. Users can also review conceptual "strands"--anew tool on the electronic version--that provides sequences of benchmarks that students should progress through on the way toward a specific science-literacy goal. In addition, teachers can brainstorm about how to coordinate seemingly unrelated benchmarks by using "benchmark roulette," a functionwhich creates a random sample of six benchmarks, at two grade levels, that can be used as a basis for discussion. Benchmarks for Science Literacy on Disk greatly enhances the capablities of its companion book, alllowing teachers to tailor searches that are relevant to the grades and subjects they teach. Both quick and easy to use, this extraordinary program allows instant reference access to the entirespectrum of teaching and learning possiblities available with Benchmarks. Focusing on the understanding and interconnection of key concepts rather than rote memorization of terms and isolated facts, Benchmarks advocates building a lasting knowledge of science and related fields. In a culture increasingly pervaded by science, mathematics, and technology, science literacyrequires habits of mind that will enable citizens to understand the world around them, make sense of new technologies as they emerge and grow, and deal sensibly with problems that involve evidence, numbers, patterns, logical arguements, and technology--as well as the relationship of thesedisciplines to the arts, humanities, and vocational studies--making science literacy relevant to all students, regardless of the career path they may choose. Together, Science for All Americans, Benchmarks for Science Literacy, and Benchmarks for Science Literacy on Disk offer a bold new agenda for the future of science in this country, one that is certain to prepare our children for the challenges they will face in the future. Hardware and Software requirements: IBM or compatible PC, 8086, 286, or better, with hard drive. 4 MB free space on hard disk. 2 MB free RAM. MS-DOS 4.0 or higher and 3.5" drive. Mouse and color monitor preferable. Specifications: The package contains one 3.5" high density diskette and a thirty-six page user manual.American Association for the Advancement of Science Staff is the author of 'Benchmarks for Science Literacy on Disk', published 1995 under ISBN 9780195099010 and ISBN 019509901X.