Benchmark 3A
The Nature of Technology: Technology and Science
Grades 3-5, page 45

Technology extends the ability of people to change the world: to cut, shape, or put together materials; to move things from one place to another; and to reach farther with their hands, voices, senses, and minds. The changes may be for survival needs such as food, shelter, and defense, for communication and transportation, or to gain knowledge and express ideas.
 

NSES Content Standard E 
Science and Technology: Abilities of technological design 
Grades 5-8, page 165 
Identify appropriate problems for technological design. Students should develop their abilities by identifying a specified need, considering its various aspects, and talking to different potential users or beneficiaries. They should appreciate that for some needs, the cultural backgrounds and beliefs of different groups can affect the criteria for a suitable product. 

NSES Content Standard E
Science and Technology: Abilities of technological design 
Grades 9-12, page 192 
Identify a problem or design an opportunity. Students should be able to identify new problems or needs and to change and improve current technological designs.