Considering the rapid advancements in scientific knowledge and technological improvements, this paper calls for a reorientation of the curriculum and instruction of science education in Japan. The document encourages the development of a science education program which focuses on a few major concepts and then teaches children how to think rationally. The bulk of the paper contains lists of competencies required for this new approach to science curriculum and instruction. It suggests that the new thrusts involve: (1) national structures; (2) the culture and society; (3) career potentialities; (4) science and technology education; (5) science education objectives (including knowledge, problem solving and process skills, and attitudes and values); (6) curriculum development that reflects societal changes; (7) resources and facilities; (8) inservice education; (9) new approaches to teaching science content; (10) learning processes, and (11) evaluation. (TW)