Content Analysis of science books in the intermediate stage in the KSA according to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

       The current study aimed to explore the inclusion degree of Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in science books in the intermediate stage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study used the descriptive analytical approach to achieve its purpose. The content analysis sheet was used to analyse science books of the intermediate stage considering the NGSS. The study concluded that all main dimensions of NGSS in science books of the intermediate stage were included (F=2715), and they were distributed in varying proportions. The standards of scientific and engineering practices came first with a frequency of (2149), and at a percentage of (79.2%). The common concepts standards came second with a frequency of (443), and at a percentage of (16.3%). The specialized ideas standards came third with a frequency of (123), and at a percentage of (4.53%). The dimensions of NGSS were also distributed among the three grades in the intermediate stage with close frequencies. In the first grade, the standards frequency and percentages were as follows: scientific and engineering practices (866), (F=718, 82.91%), common concepts standards (F= 112, 12.93%), and specialized ideas (F=36, 4.16%). Regarding the second intermediate grade, F= 882. They were distributed as follows:  scientific and engineering practices (F=667, 75.62%), common concepts (F= 178, 20.18%), and specialized ideas (F=37, 4.2%). In the third grade, the NGSS were included (967) times and distributed as follows: scientific and engineering practices (F=764, 79.0%), common concepts (F=153, 15.8%), and specialized ideas (F= 50, 5.2%). The results also showed the inclusion of sub-standards in different proportions. It concluded with some recommendations, including reconsidering the content and activities of science books for the intermediate stage and enriching them with NGSS with balanced degrees.