HS-ETS1-3

Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics, as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.

  1. Environment

    Older diesel school buses linked to more student absences

    Schools that replaced or upgraded old diesel school buses increased student attendance rates, new research shows.

    By
  2. Environment

    Making yards more diverse can reap big environmental benefits

    Replacing grass with native plants uses less water and fewer chemicals while providing additional benefits to people and wildlife.

    By
  3. Health & Medicine

    New patch might replace some finger-prick testing of blood sugar

    A finalist at Regeneron ISEF created a wearable patch that turns yellow when someone’s blood-sugar level gets high enough to need an insulin shot.

    By
  4. Tech

    A new solar-powered gel purifies water in a flash

    The unusual, fruit-inspired structure of this material provides quick filtration that could satisfy people's daily water needs.

    By
  5. Chemistry

    Chemists have unlocked the secrets of long-lasting Roman concrete

    By searching ancient texts and ruins, scientists found a concrete recipe that could make buildings stronger — and help address climate change.

    By
  6. Environment

    Sea life may suffer as plastic bits alter metals in water

    This interplay between plastics and metals could affect how each affects the environment — and suggests opportunities for controlling their risks.

    By
  7. Climate

    Here’s how to increase clean energy without harming wildlife

    Wind farms, solar panels and more take up land and may harm wildlife. Researchers are working to resolve this conflict.

    By
  8. Physics

    A powerful laser can control the paths that lightning takes

    In a mountaintop experiment, a laser beamed at the sky created a virtual lightning rod that snagged several bolts.

    By
  9. Tech

    Think of this new tech as sunglasses for our windows

    Keeping buildings cool can use a lot of energy. Thanks to quantum computing, engineers designed a coating to cut the warming light that enters windows.

    By
  10. Materials Science

    Analyze This: Algae behind blue-glowing waves light up a new device

    Some algae glow blue when they experience forces. Held in transparent plastic, they now make devices light up in response to gentle pushes and tugs.

    By
  11. Tech

    New robot can pick up a single drop of liquid

    The new device, which looks like a pair of plastic pinchers, is the first to be able to pick up individual droplets of liquid.

    By
  12. Tech

    Can a robot ever become your friend?

    Social robots can teach, help and keep people company. What would it take for machines to form real friendships with people? And do we even want that?

    By