ABSTRACT
To prepare students to work in a STEM-related field, all challenging science instruction should be supported by the following 21st-century skills. Similar to the recommendations made in the NGSS, VanTassel-Baska suggested science curriculum for advanced learners focus on conceptual understanding. In grades K-2, engineering is focused on solving simple problems, developing solutions, and evaluating the best solutions. In grades 3-5, engineering is focused on solving problems with specific criteria, researching and exploring multiple solutions, and improving solutions based on testing. Science curriculum for advanced learners should model the NGSS and encourage these skills to be practiced in all grade levels. Life and career skills should also be infused into the science curriculum for gifted students. In an enriched inquiry-based science classroom, both experiences can augment science talent development, contribute to students' scientific literacy, reinforce scientific and mathematical practices, and provide gifted students an outlet for innovation and independent learning.
