Texas TEKS 7.4

7.4 is a TEKS knowledge and skills statement. These are the student expectations under it.

• 7.4.A

  relate the impact of past and current research on scientific thought and society, including the process of science, cost-benefit analysis, and contributions of ...

• 7.4.B

  make informed decisions by evaluating evidence from multiple appropriate sources to assess the credibility, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and methods used

• 7.4.C

  research and explore resources such as museums, libraries, professional organizations, private companies, online platforms, and mentors employed in a science, t...

01

What Students Need to Do

Explain how past and current research changes scientific ideas and affects society. Compare evidence, source credibility, research methods, benefits, costs, and the work of scientists from varied backgrounds. Use museums, organizations, companies, websites, and STEM professionals to investigate careers.

02

What Mastery Looks Like

Students can explain how a research finding changed scientific thinking or a community decision. They can compare sources, defend which is more trustworthy, and recommend an option based on evidence and cost. They can describe a STEM career using information from a reliable resource or professional.

03

Common Misconceptions

Students may assume a popular website is reliable, a higher-priced solution works better, or one study proves a claim. They may picture science as a fixed series of steps completed by lone, famous scientists. They may also think all STEM careers require laboratory work or advanced degrees.

04

How to Assess It

Provide two short source cards that recommend different water filters. Ask students to choose one, cite two credibility clues, compare cost and benefit, and identify one concern about the testing method.

1. 01

   Build simple bottle filters, test water clarity, calculate cost per filtered cup, and compare each design's benefits and limits.

2. 02

   Write a recommendation on a local water issue using two sources, then name whose research shaped your reasoning.

3. 03

   Play Source Detective by ranking museum, company, social media, and journal cards for credibility, evidence, methods, and possible bias.

4. 04

   Interview a local STEM professional about daily tasks, training, research methods, and how their work affects community decisions.

• K.4

  The Kindergarten version of this standard.

• 1.4

  Scientific and engineering practices. The student knows the contributions of scientists and recognizes the importance of scientific research and innovation for ...

• 6.4

  The 6th Grade version of this standard.

• 3.4

  Scientific and engineering practices. The student knows the contributions of scientists and recognizes the importance of scientific research and innovation for ...