Science

SCIENCE
Grade: 6
In the sixth grade science curriculum, students investigate concepts and properties of weather, electricity, magnetism, and liquids. Students also have opportunities to study the behavior of mealworms. In science, activities involving experimental design are implemented. The titles of the sixth grade units include: Investigating Matter: Liquids, Behavior of Mealworms, Batteries and Bulbs II, Weather, and Exploring the Universe. Language Arts and scientific literacy skills are reinforced through the Science Reading Resource Program.

INVESTIGATIONS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Grade: 7
Investigations in Environmental Science (IES) is a life science course in which interactions between organisms and their environment are studied through use of living materials and printed materials, laboratory investigations, and computer technology. Science content strands on scientific investigation, cellular structure and function, heredity, diversity, and ecosystems are emphasized throughout the year. Science skills -- designing experiments, collecting data, organizing data, interpreting results, and constructing models -- are integrated during hands-on science experiences.

INVESTIGATING MATTER AND ENERGY
Grade: 8
Investigating Matter and Energy builds upon the experiences in the physical sciences introduced to students in the upper-elementary grades. Properties of matter, energy forms and their transformations, forces and motion, and the relationship of the Earth-Sun-Moon system are content strands developed through a sequence of varied instructional strategies with an emphasis on experimentation, observation, generalization, and discussion. Science skills -- designing student investigations; collecting, organizing, and analyzing data; and communicating results -- are integrated throughout the course. Graphing calculators and computer technologies including probeware, CD-ROM, and videodisc are integrated with instruction and used to enhance student understanding.