Grade
3 Patterns
and Systems
The focus for third grade students is on identifying systems and patterns in systems. Systems are the units of investigations. A system is an interrelated group of objects or components that form a functioning unit. Students learn to identify portions of a system to facilitate investigation. Systems have boundaries, components, resources, flow and feedback. Guide student learning to continue to emphasize the unifying concepts previously introduced including evidence, explanation, measurement, order, organization, and change as well as the introduction at grade three of systems. The strands provide a context for teaching the content goals.
Competency
Goal 3: The learner will make observations and use
appropriate technology to build an understanding of the earth/moon/sun
system.
Grade
6
Patterns and Cycles
Learners will study natural and technological systems. All goals should focus on the unifying concepts of science defined by the National Science Education Standards: Systems, Order, and Organization; Evidence, Models, and Explanation; Constancy, Change, and Measurement; Evolution and Equilibrium; and Form and Function. The skills of inquiry and technological design are targeted for mastery. The concepts for which in-depth studies should be designed at sixth grade level include: Scientific Inquiry, Technological Design, Lithosphere, Cycling of Matter, Solar System, Energy Transfer/Transformation, and Population Dynamics.
Competency
Goal 5: The learner will build understanding of the Solar
System.
Grades
9 -12 Earth/Environmental
Science
The Earth/Environmental science curriculum focuses on the function of Earth's systems. Emphasis is placed on matter, energy, plate tectonics, environmental awareness, materials availability, and the cycles that circulate energy and material through the earth system. Learners will study natural and technological systems. The program strands and unifying concepts provide a context for teaching content and process skill goals. All goals should focus on the unifying concepts:
- Systems, Order and Organization
- Evidence, Models, and Explanation
- Constancy, Change, and Measurement
- Evolution and Equilibrium
- Form and Function
Competency
Goal 6: The learner will acquire an understanding of the earth in the solar system and its position in the universe.
Astronomy
in the Classroom Resource Links - a Student's View
