Science is a body of knowledge. It has rules and it is held accountable to those rules. Evidence must be collected in a way that is repeatable and known theories can be challenged by new evidence, or new understanding. This means that scientists take part in peer review to discuss evidence, theories, and conclusions. Scientists work hard to identify bias in their work and in the work of others. 

Scientists also draw on other bodies of knowledge to gain understanding through different ways of looking at the world. People working in science in Aotearoa New Zealand learn from and build on knowledge that has been generated by those who came before them, especially from mātauranga Māori and Pacific knowledges.

Ākonga can appreciate how science operates and can use appropriate tools in their own science practice by understanding how science knowledge has developed and changed over time. Ākonga will also know that wānanga and talanoa can be used to discuss existing science knowledge, allowing new knowledge to emerge.  

Inquiries answer questions. They can be used to generate or evaluate information. There are different inquiry approaches that involve making observations, investigating, gathering evidence, and collecting and interpreting data. Different inquiry approaches are appropriate for answering different questions. 

Careful observations of the natural world contribute to the recorded practice, protocols, and kōrero tuku iho of mātauranga Māori. These observations have led to robust understanding of natural phenomena and are a type of inquiry approach. 

Another type of inquiry approach is a scientific investigation. These investigations follow a set of rules and there are different types for different fields of science. 

Exploring through research and modelling are inquiry approaches that can be used when an investigation or an observation is not practical. 

When ākonga carry out inquiries themselves, they learn to think critically about information, data, and claims from the investigations of others. A lifelong learner can collect, investigate, and evaluate data to enhance their participation in society. 

Ākonga have access to a huge volume of information from the internet and other sources. This information can be presented in different modes such as infographics, diagrams, tables, cartoons, animations, and anecdotes. It is important to recognise valid evidence and to distinguish science from disinformation. Ākonga need to understand how science is communicated and miscommunicated. 

Science texts use subject-specific vocabulary and science specific strategies to communicate information. Articles, reports, graphs, and data sets are also used to communicate in science. Ākonga will need to communicate their own findings and understandings in different styles for different audiences during their lives. Clear, well-reasoned, concise arguments based on solid evidence are a cornerstone of science practice. 

In Science, ākonga will also build their verbal literacy through talking, debating, explaining, and listening in wānanga and talanoa. Engaging with different ideas is part of the process for developing and communicating science knowledge. 

Ākonga are empowered when they can take action in their own world. In Science, ākonga learn to explore different perspectives, develop and express their own reasoned opinions, and make decisions. They will question the decisions of others, and discuss tiakitanga as it relates to responsible decisions and actions.  Ākonga will explore their understanding of kuleana and vā as they learn about the importance of looking at different perspectives when making decisions. 

Ākonga will look at real world issues (including problems, needs, and opportunities) at a personal, community, or global level. They will bring their own worldview, experiences, and knowledge while also building their critical inquiry skills. 

Ākonga will learn about the complexity of decision making through real world examples. They will also learn that mātauranga Māori and science knowledge are used for responsible decision making and action. One of the ways that ākonga will do this is through developing their understanding of tiakitanga contributing to responsible science practice.