This concept paper outlines the rationale for a project on the development of science curriculum for K-8 high ability learners. The rationale was developed through a synthesis of major recommendations from national science reform reports and from a review of the literature on effective science curriculum for high ability learners. The paper begins with a summary of the background research, with emphasis on six key curriculum components: (1) developing an understanding of scientific concepts; (2) developing scientific inquiry skills; (3) developing a knowledge base in science areas; (4) developing interdisciplinary connections; (5) developing problem-based learning approaches; and (6) developing scientific habits of mind. Then major project objectives are outlined. These include: review of promising science curriculum materials for high ability learners; development of papers on key science concepts; development of a curriculum scope and sequence model; conducting a summer institute on teaching science to gifted learners; development of a set of exemplary science curriculum units; field testing of newly developed curriculum; and generation of scholarly publications. A glossary defines key terms and an appendix provides a synthesis of science report recommendations. (Contains 59 references.) (DB)