Frameworks and Instructional Guides

Framework and Instructional Guide Grades 9-12

What are the Maryland State STEM Standards of Practice Frameworks and Instructional Guides?
The Maryland State STEM Standards of Practice Frameworks identify essential skills and knowledge of STEM proficient students for each STEM Standards of Practice. The Instructional Guides includes instructional notes and examples which provide clarification for educators.

How will the Frameworks and Instructional Guides be used?
The Maryland State STEM Standards of Practice cross all grade levels and disciplines. Instruction in STEM education is a shared responsibility within a school. Therefore, all classroom teachers, supporting teaching staff, and special area teachers can use the Maryland State STEM Standards of Practice Frameworks to engage students in STEM activities and tasks that develop STEM proficiency. Students should be given the opportunity to practice the essential skills and knowledge described while learning content. Implementation could occur through projects/themes that span multiple disciplines or through appropriate content-based infusion.

How were the Frameworks and Instructional Guides developed?
In 2012 the Office of STEM Initiatives convened multidisciplinary design teams consisting of Maryland educators representing grades K-12 and higher education. The design teams identified what students should know and do to demonstrate proficiency with each STEM Standard of Practice by the end of grades K, 2, 5, 8, and 12. The Maryland State Department of Education staff and other stakeholders reviewed and refined the work of the design team. The Frameworks and Instructional Guides represent the culminating work of the design team and other stakeholders in identifying the essential skills and knowledge of STEM proficient students.

How does the Frameworks and Instructional Guides link to content standards (e.g. — Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards)?
The Maryland State STEM Standards of Practice Frameworks and Instructional Guides identify parallels among different content standards such as Standards for Mathematical Practices, Scientific and Engineering Practices, Common Core English Language Arts Standards, Maryland Technology Education State Curriculum, School Library Media Standards, and other Maryland State Curriculum Standards.

Maryland STEM: Innovation today to meet tomorrow's global challenges.