In 2009, average NAEP science scores were highest for graduates who completed chemistry in the ninth grade compared to those who completed lower level courses.
In 2009, average NAEP science scores were higher for graduates who completed advanced science during high school compared to those who completed lower level courses.
Average NAEP science scores, by highest level science course completed in ninth grade and twelfth grade: 2009
| Average NAEP science score |
Standard error |
|---|
| Earth science |
149 |
* |
(2.4) |
|---|
| Biology |
159 |
* |
(1.3) |
|---|
| Chemistry |
176 |
|
(3.9) |
|---|
| Earth science or below |
128 |
* |
(5.6) |
|---|
| Biology |
131 |
* |
(1.3) |
|---|
| Chemistry |
144 |
* |
(1.1) |
|---|
| Physics |
157 |
* |
(1.7) |
|---|
| Advanced science |
182 |
|
(1.1) |
|---|
* Significantly different (p<.05) from the highest level course.
NOTE: No data for 2005 is included because the science Framework was revised in 2009 and the results cannot be compared to those from previous assessments.
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics, High School Transcript Study (HSTS), 2009; National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 2009 Science Assessment.