This publication is designed to aid school administrators, curriculum planners, and teachers in implementing the science education program in Texas public schools. The framework organizes instruction for kindergarten through grade 12 around certain widely accepted processes of science. These processes are reflected in the identified essential elements of instruction the State Board of Education requires school districts to offer. Each essential element has subelements that provide content for particular grades and courses. The essential elements and subelements provide opportunities for students to be involved in concrete activities in kindergarten through grade 6 and in laboratory and field activities in grades 7-12. In addition, the framework encompasses science programs for special student populations, including special education, gifted and talented education, compensatory education, bilingual education, and migrant education. The document is divided into four major sections: Overview of the Science Program, Elementary Science, Secondary Science, and Special Student Populations and Science. The appendices contain examples of alternative assessment procedures and basic materials and equipment lists. (TW)