HS-ETS1-2

Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

  1. Microbes

    Genes point to how some bacteria can gobble up electricity

    A new study shows how some microbes absorb and release electrons — a trait that may point to new fuels or ways to store energy.

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  2. Earth

    Analyze This: Nutrients from sewage may harm coastal ecosystems

    A new model suggests that 58 percent of coral reefs and 88 percent of seagrass beds are exposed to excess nitrogen from wastewater.

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  3. Life

    Scientists Say: Experiment

    An experiment is a set of procedures to learn about the world — and an important part of the scientific process.

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  4. Humans

    Want to improve your reading skills? You might just need more space

    A simple change by publishers and Web designers could help kids — both with and without dyslexia — read faster and better.

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  5. Tech

    Someday soon, smartwatches may know you’re sick before you do

    Such an early detection of flu-like infections could tell you when to avoid others to limit the spread of disease.

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  6. Physics

    Future cars may offer personal sound zones — no earphones needed

    Zones that offer each passenger personal listening are closer to reality. A new design improves performance by adapting to the conditions in your car.

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  7. Materials Science

    Analyze This: Hardened wood can make sharp steak knives

    Researchers treated wood to make it hard and dense. Out of it, they carved sharp knives and nails that could substitute for ones made of steel.

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  8. Chemistry

    Chemistry solves a French royal mystery

    Ink analysis reveals the hidden words of Marie Antoinette's letters and who tried to hide them.

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  9. Environment

    Everyday plastics can pollute, leaching thousands of chemicals

    Plastic bags and containers leach potentially toxic chemicals into both food and water, but researchers yet don’t know how they might affect health.

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  10. Brain

    Ask the experts: How to create a top-notch science fair project

    Five finalists in the Broadcom MASTERS middle-school competition reveal how they created nationally competitive projects.

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  11. Materials Science

    Bacteria make ‘spider silk’ that’s stronger than steel

    Part spider silk, the material is better than what some spiders make. Researchers think it might make the basis for surgical threads or unusually strong fabrics.

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  12. Tech

    Will you learn better from reading on screen or on paper?

    Some studies find students don’t learn as well by reading on screens as from paper. But that's not always true. Here’s how to make the most of reading in either format.

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