Scientific Investigation, Reasoning, and Logic

The student will plan and conduct investigations in which

a)      rocks, minerals, and organisms are identified using a classification key;

b)     estimations of length, mass, and volume are made;

c)      appropriate instruments are selected and used for making quantitative observations of length, mass, volume, and elapsed time;

d)     accurate measurements are made using basic tools (thermometer, meter stick, balance, graduated cylinder);

e)      data are collected, recorded, and reported using the appropriate graphical representation (graphs, charts, diagrams);

f)      predictions are made using patterns, and simple graphical data are extrapolated;

g)      manipulated and responding variables are identified; and

Force, Motion, and Energy

The student will investigate and understand how sound is transmitted

and is used as a means of communication. Key concepts include

a)      frequency, waves, wavelength, vibration;

b)     the ability of different media (solids, liquids, and gases) to transmit sound; and

The student will investigate and understand basic characteristics of

visible light and how it behaves. Key concepts include

a)      the visible spectrum and light waves;

b)     refraction of light through water and prisms;

c)      reflection of light from reflective surfaces (mirrors);

d)     opaque, transparent, and translucent; and

The student will investigate and understand that matter is anything

that has mass, takes up space, and occurs as a solid, liquid, or gas.

Key concepts include

a)      atoms, elements, molecules, and compounds;

b)     mixtures including solutions; and

The student will investigate and understand that organisms are made

of cells and have distinguishing characteristics. Key concepts include

a)      basic cell structures and functions;

b)     kingdoms of living things;

c)      vascular and nonvascular plants; and

The student will investigate and understand characteristics of the

ocean environment. Key concepts include

a)      geological characteristics (continental shelf, slope, rise);

b)     physical characteristics (depth, salinity, major currents); and

The student will investigate and understand how the Earth’s surface

is constantly changing. Key concepts include

a)      the rock cycle including identification of rock types;

b)     Earth history and fossil evidence;

c)      the basic structure of the Earth’s interior;

d)     plate tectonics (earthquakes and volcanoes);

e)      weathering and erosion; and