
CT State Dept of Education
Prekindergarten – Grade 8
SCIENCE
Curriculum Standards
And
Assessment Expectations
(Grade Level Expectations, Grade Level Learning Concepts)
(adapted for New Haven Public Schools Pacing)
Aug11
NEW HAVEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCIENCE CONTENT OUTLINE www.newhavenscience.org (Note, K-6 content order subject to change and is dependent on kit supply/ specific rotation)
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Quarter
One |
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Quarter
Two |
Quarter |
Three |
Quarter Four |
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K |
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Object Properties (FossWood) |
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Seasons |
Living Things: Characteristics (FOSS Trees) |
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1 |
Compare/ Contrast Measurement (STC
CompareMeasure) |
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Motion (NK) |
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Light Properties (DSM SunShadows) |
Living Things: Structure (STC Organism) |
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2 |
Solids/Liquids (STC) |
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Soil (STC or DSM) |
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Nutrition (NK) |
Animal Life Cycles (STC Butterfly) |
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3 |
Rocks (STC) |
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Material Properties *ET (STC ChemTest) |
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Recycling/ Conservation (NK) |
Plant Life Cycles (STC PlantGrowth) |
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4 |
Force and Motion (STC MotionDesign) |
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Ecosystems (NK) |
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Water (STC Land/Water) |
Electricity *ET (STC
ElecCircuit) |
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5 |
Sound (UNHSound) |
Light and Color (GEMS ColorAnalyzer) |
Light and Uses (Lenses) (GEMS MoreMagnifier) |
Senses *ET (NK) |
Sun, Earth, Moon (GEMS) (CMT
TEST FOLLOWS) |
Health Topics |
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6 |
Ecosystem Populations (STC Ecosytem) |
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Weather Systems (FOSS Weather/Water) |
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Water Resources *ET (URI Watershed) |
Simple Machines (FOSS
Lever) |
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7 |
Properties of Matter |
Chemical Properties |
Cells |
Genetics/ Reproduction |
Life Systems Musculo-Skeletal |
Life Systems Biochemical *ET |
Microbes/ Food Preservation |
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8 |
Forces/Bridges |
Forces/ Motion *ET |
Solar System Motion |
Landforms/Earth Forces |
Tectonic Plates (CMT
TEST FOLLOWS) |
Rock Cycle |
Natural Disasters |
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9 PhyChem |
Heat/Phase Changes |
Atoms/ Bonding *ET |
Polymers *ET |
Earth chemical cycles *ET |
Earth Materials/ Environ Impact *ET |
Energy/ Electricity *ET |
Energy Sources/ Impacts *ET |
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10 Bio |
BioChemistry *ET |
Cells/ Bacteria/ Viruses *ET |
Heredity/ Genetics *ET |
Evolution |
Diseases Populations *ET (CAPT
TEST FOLLOWS) |
Organism Interdependence |
Organism Behavior/ Structure |
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11 Chem |
Chemical Properties |
Atomic Structure |
Nuclear |
Compounds/ Bonding |
Reactions/ Equations |
Gas Behavior |
Organic
Chemistry |
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12 Physics |
Motion |
ACCEL |
2 D Motion |
Forces/Work |
Energy/Electric |
Wave/Sound/Light |
Mod Physics |
*ET = CT Embedded Task, NHPS District Unit Tasks and Quarterly
Assessments Also Required Grades 7-12,
New Haven City Wide Science Fair May 15,16,17 www.nhsciencefair.org
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Grades PreK-2 Core Scientific Inquiry, Literacy and Numeracy,
www.newhavenscience.org How is scientific knowledge created and communicated? |
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Content Standards |
Expected Performances |
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SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY á Scientific inquiry is a thoughtful
and coordinated attempt to search out, describe, explain and predict natural
phenomena. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY á Scientific literacy
includes speaking, listening, presenting, interpreting, reading and writing
about science. SCIENTIFIC NUMERACY á Mathematics provides
useful tools for the description, analysis and presentation of scientific
data and ideas. |
A INQ.1
Make observations and ask questions about objects, organisms and the
environment. A INQ.2
Use senses and simple measuring tools to collect data. A INQ.3
Make predictions based on observed patterns. A INQ.4
Read, write, listen and speak about observations of the natural
world. A INQ.5
Seek information in books, magazines and pictures. A INQ.6
Present information in words and drawings. A INQ.7
Use standard tools to measure and describe physical properties such
as weight, length and temperature. A INQ.8
Use nonstandard measures to estimate and compare the sizes of
objects. A INQ.9
Count, order and sort objects by their properties. A INQ.10
Represent information in bar graphs. |
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Properties of Matter - How
does the structure of matter affect the properties and uses of materials? PREKINDERGARTEN (See PreK curriculum, little scientists kits) |
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PK.1 - Objects have properties that can be observed and used to
describe similarities and differences |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Preschool Curriculum Framework |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able to: |
Preschool Assessment Framework |
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PK.1.a. Some properties can be observed with the senses, and others can be discovered by using simple tools or tests. |
Cognitive Development: Logical-Mathematical/Scientific Thinking - 1.Ask questions about and comment on observations and experimentation; 2.Collect, describe and record information; 3.Use equipment for investigation; 4.Use common instruments to measure things; 5.Demonstrate understanding of one-to-one correspondence while counting; 6.Order several objects on the basis of one attribute; 7. Sort objects by one or more attributes and regroup the objects based on a new attribute; 8.Engage
in a scientific experiment with a peer or with a small group. |
COG 1 Engages in scientific inquiry COG 3 Sorts objects COG 5 Compares and orders objects and events COG 6 Relates number to quantity |
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Heredity and
Evolution – What processes are responsible for lifeÕs unity and
diversity? preKindergarten (See PreK curriculum, little scientists kits) |
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PK.2 — Many different kinds of living things inhabit the Earth. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Preschool Curriculum Framework |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be
able to: |
Preschool Assessment Framework |
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PK.2.a. Living things have certain characteristics that distinguish them from nonliving things, including growth, movement, reproduction and response to stimuli. |
Cognitive Development: Logical-Mathematical/Scientific Thinking - 1. Ask questions about and comment on observations
and experimentation; 2. Collect, describe and record information; 3. Sort objects by one or more attributes and regroup
the objects based on a new attribute; 4. Compare and contrast objects and events. Personal and Social Development – 1. Identify themselves by family and gender. 2. State at least two ways in which children are
similar and two ways in which they are different. |
1. Use the senses and simple tools to make observations of characteristics and behaviors of living and nonliving things. 2. Give examples of living things and nonliving things. 3. Make observations and distinguish between the characteristics of plants and animals. 4. Compare attributes of self, family members or classmates, and describe how they are similar and different. |
COG 1 Engages in scientific inquiry COG 3 Sorts objects COG 5 Compares and orders objects and events P & S 9 Recognizes similarities and appreciates differences |
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Energy in the
EarthÕs Systems – How do external and internal sources of energy affect
the EarthÕs systems? PreKindergarten (See PreK curriculum, little scientists kits) |
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PK.3 — Weather conditions vary daily and seasonally. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Preschool Curriculum Framework |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be
able to: |
Preschool Assessment Framework |
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PK.3.a. Daily and seasonal weather conditions affect what we do, what we wear and how we feel. |
Cognitive Development: Logical-Mathematical/Scientific Thinking - 1. Ask questions about and comment on observations
and experimentation; 2. Collect, describe and record information; 3. Demonstrate an understanding of sequence of events
and time periods; 4. Make and verify predictions about what will occur. Personal and Social Development – 1. Use self-help skills |
1. Use the senses to observe and describe evidence of current or recent weather conditions (e.g., flags blowing, frost on window, puddles after rain, etc.) 2. Notice weather conditions and use words and numbers to describe and analyze conditions over time (e.g., Òit rained 5 times this monthÓ.) 3. Identify the season that corresponds with observable conditions (e.g., falling leaves, snow vs. rain, buds on trees or greener grass). 4. Make judgments about appropriate clothing and activities based on weather conditions. |
COG 1 Engages in scientific inquiry PHY 3 Cares for self independently |
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Science and Technology in Society – How do
science and technology affect the quality of our lives? preKindergarten (See PreK curriculum, little scientists kits) |
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PK.4 — Some objects are natural, while others have been designed and made by people to improve the quality of life. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Preschool Curriculum Framework |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be
able to: |
Preschool Assessment Framework |
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PK.4.a. Humans select materials with which to build structures based on the properties of the materials. |
Cognitive Development: Logical-Mathematical/Scientific Thinking - 1. Ask questions about and comment on observations
and experimentation; 2. Sort objects by one or more attributes and regroup
the objects based on a new attribute; 3. Make and verify predictions about what will occur; 4. Engage in a scientific experiment with a peer or
with a small group; Personal and Social Development – 1. Demonstrate the ability to use a minimum of two different strategies to attempt to solve a problem; Creative Expression/Aesthetic Development - 1. Use a variety of art materials and activities for
sensory experience and exploration. |
1. Observe, describe and sort building materials by properties such as strength, weight, stiffness or flexibility. 2. Pose questions and conduct simple tests to compare the effectiveness of different building materials (e.g., blocks of wood, plastic, foam or cardboard) for constructing towers, bridges and buildings. 3. Make judgments about the best building materials to use for different purposes (e.g., making the tallest tower or the longest bridge). 4. Invent and explain techniques for stabilizing a structure. 5. Compare block structures to pictures and to real structures in the neighborhood. |
P & S 1 Shows self-direction with a range of materials COG 1 Engages in scientific inquiry COG 2 Uses a variety of strategies to solve problems COG 3 Sorts objects COG 7 Demonstrates spatial awareness CRE 1 Builds and constructs to represent own ideas |
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Energy in the Earth's Systems - How do external and internal sources of energy affect the Earth's systems? NEW HAVEN KINDERGARTEN UNIT 1, 3 STC Weather Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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K.3 — Weather conditions vary daily and seasonally. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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K.3.a. Daily and seasonal weather conditions affect what we do, what we wear and how we feel. |
1. The sun is the source of heat and light that warms the land, air and water. Variations in the amount of sunlight that reaches the earth cause the weather. 2. Weather conditions can be observed and described as sunny, cloudy, rainy, foggy, snowy, stormy, windy, hot or cold. Weather observations can be made based on how we feel, what we see or hear, or by using weather measurement instruments such as thermometers. 3. Changes in weather conditions can be recorded during different times of day, from day to day, and over longer periods of time (seasonal cycle). Repeated observations can show patterns that can be used to predict general weather conditions. For example, temperatures are generally cooler at night than during the day and colder in winter than in spring, summer or fall. 4. Weather influences how we dress, how we feel, and what we do outside. 5. Weather affects the land, animals and plants, and bodies of water. 6. When the temperature is below Òfreezing,Ó water outside freezes to ice and precipitation falls as snow or ice; when the temperature is above freezing, ice and snow melt and precipitation falls as rain. 7. Clouds and fog are made of tiny drops of water. Clouds have different shapes, sizes and colors that can be observed and compared. Some cloud types are associated with precipitation and some with fair weather. 8. Wind
is moving air. Sometimes air
moves fast and sometimes it hardly moves at all. Wind speed can be estimated by
observing the things that it moves, such as flags, tree branches or
sailboats. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: weather, season (winter, spring, summer, fall), thermometer, precipitation, freezing, melt |
1. Use the senses to observe daily weather conditions and record data systematically using organizers such as tables, charts, picture graphs or calendars. 2. Analyze weather data collected over time (during the day, from day to day, and from season to season) to identify patterns and make comparisons and predictions. 3. Observe, compare and contrast cloud shapes, sizes and colors, and relate the appearance of clouds to fair weather or precipitation. 4. Write, speak or draw ways that weather influences humans, other animals and plants. 5. Make judgments about appropriate clothing and activities based on weather conditions. |
A7. Describe and record daily weather conditions. A8. Relate seasonal weather patterns to appropriate choices of clothing and activities. |
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Properties of Matter - How
does the structure of matter affect the properties and uses of materials? NEW HAVEN KINDERGARTEN UNIT 2 DSM Properties/FOSS Wood Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org( as well as inquiry standards) |
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K.1 - Objects have properties that can be observed and used to
describe similarities and differences |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand that: |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able to: |
Expected Performances |
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K.1.a. Some properties can be observed with the senses, and others can be discovered by using simple tools or tests. |
1. Humans have five senses that they use to observe their environment. A specific sense organ is associated with each sense. 2. Objects have properties that can be observed using the senses. Examples include size, weight, shape, color, texture, transparency, etc. An objectÕs observable properties do not include the objectÕs name or its uses. 3. Sorting objects into groups based on one (or more) of their properties makes it possible to observe and describe their similarities and differences. 4. Placing
objects in order based on their size or weight makes it possible to observe
patterns and describe relationships among the objects in a group. 5. Objects
can be described and sorted based on the materials from which they are made
(for example, wood, paper, fabric, plastic, glass or metal). Objects can be made of a mixture of
materials. 6. Objects
can be described and sorted based on the results of simple tests. Simple tests include actions such as
bending, squeezing, holding it near a magnet or putting it in water. Objects can be described as
magnetic/nonmagnetic, flexible/not flexible, hard/soft, a floater/sinker,
etc. 7. The heaviness of objects can be compared using the sense of touch. Balances and scales are measurement tools that allow people to observe and compare the heaviness of objects more accurately. Objects can be sorted into groups that have the same heaviness, or into groups that are Òmore heavy thanÓ or Òless heavy thanÓ a given object. 8. The temperature of the air, water or bodies can be compared using the sense of touch. A thermometer is a measurement tool that allows people to compare temperatures more accurately. 9. Objects can be sorted into groups based on measurements of their size. Nonstandard units for measuring size include hands, footsteps, pennies or paper clips. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: senses, observe, observation, property, sort, classify, material, float, sink, flexible, heavy, magnetic, nonmagnetic, thermometer |
1. Match each of the five senses with its associated body part and the kind of information it perceives. 2. Make scientific observations using the five senses, and distinguish between an objectÕs observable properties and its name or its uses. 3. Classify organisms or objects by one and two observable properties and explain the rule used for sorting (e.g., size, color, shape, texture or flexibility). 4. Use simple tools and nonstandard units to estimate or predict properties such as size, heaviness, magnetic attraction and float/sink. 5. Describe properties of materials such as wood, plastic, metal, cloth or paper, and sort objects by the material from which they are made. 6. Count, order and sort objects by their observable properties. |
A1. Use the senses and simple measuring tools, such as rulers and equal-arm balances, to observe common objects and sort them into groups based on size, weight, shape or color. A2. Sort objects made of materials such as wood, paper and metal into groups based on properties such as flexibility, attraction to magnets, and whether they float or sink in water. A3. Count objects in a group and use mathematical terms to describe quantitative relationships such as: same as, more than, less than, equal, etc. |
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Science and
Technology in Society - How do science and technology affect the quality of
our lives? NEW HAVEN: KINDERGARTEN UNIT 2 FOSS Wood Kit , DSM Properties Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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K.4 — Some objects are natural, while others have been designed and made by people to improve the quality of life. This content standard is an application of the
concepts in content standard K.1 and should be integrated into the same unit. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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K.4.a. Humans select both natural and man-made materials to build shelters based on local climate conditions, properties of the materials, and their availability in the environment. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: shelter, rigid, transparent |
1. Conduct simple tests to compare the properties of different materials and their usefulness for making roofs, windows, walls or floors (e.g., waterproof, transparent, strong). 2. Seek information in books, magazines and pictures that describes materials used to build shelters by people in different regions of the world. 3. Compare and contrast the materials used by humans and animals to build shelters. |
A9. Describe the types of materials used by people to build houses and the properties that make the materials useful. |
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Heredity and
Evolution - What processes are responsible for lifeÕs unity and diversity? New Haven: KINDERGARTEN UNIT 4 FOSS TREES Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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K.2 — Many different kinds of
living things inhabit the Earth. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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K.2.a. Living things have certain characteristics that distinguish them from nonliving things, including growth, movement, reproduction and response to stimuli. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: classify, reproduction, offspring, characteristics, reptile, insect, mammal |
1. Observe and describe differences between living and nonliving things in terms of growth, offspring and need for energy from ÒfoodÓ. 2. Sort and count living and nonliving things in the classroom, the schoolyard and in pictures. 3. Use nonstandard measures to estimate and compare the height, length or weight of different kinds of plants and animals. 4. Observe and write, speak or draw about similarities and differences between plants and animals. 5. Match pictures or models of adults with their offspring (animals and plants). 6. Recognize varied individuals as examples of the same kind of living thing (e.g., different color rabbits are all rabbits; different breeds of dogs are all dogs). |
A4. Describe the similarities and differences in the appearance and behaviors of plants, birds, fish, insects and mammals (including humans). A.5 Describe the similarities and differences in the appearance and behaviors of adults and their offspring. A6. Describe characteristics that distinguish living from nonliving things. |
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Science and
Technology in Society – How do science and technology affect the
quality of our lives? New Haven: GRADE 1 Unit 1 STC Compare/Measure Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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1.4 The properties of materials and organisms can be described more accurately through the use of standard measuring units. This content standard should be integrated within
all PK–5 standards. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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1.4.a. Various tools can be used to measure, describe and compare different objects and organisms. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: centimeter, meter, gram, kilogram, milliliter, liter, graduated cylinder, thermometer, Celsius, Fahrenheit |
1. Use nonstandard and standard measurements to describe and compare the weight, length, and size of objects and organisms. 2. Show approximate size of a centimeter, meter, inch, foot and yard using referents such as a finger, a hand or a book. 3. Select appropriate tools for measuring length, height, weight or liquid volume. 4. Use metric and customary rulers to measure length, height or distance in centimeters, meters, inches, feet and yards. 5. Use balances and scales to compare and measure the heaviness of objects and organisms in kilograms, grams, pounds and ounces. 6. Use graduated cylinders, beakers and measuring cups to measure the volume of liquids in milliliters, liters, cups and ounces. 7. Use thermometers to measure air and water temperature in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit. 8. Make graphs to identify patterns in recorded measurements such as growth or temperature over time. |
A17. Estimate, measure and compare the sizes and
weights of different objects and organisms using standard and nonstandard
measuring tools. |
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Forces and Motion -
What makes objects move the way they do? NEW HAVEN: GRADE 1 UNIT 2, 3 DSM Sun/Shadows Kit, ( DSM Force Motion) (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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1.1 — The sun appears to move across the sky in the same way every day, but its path changes gradually over the seasons. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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1.1.a An objectÕs position can be described by locating it relative to another object or the background. 1.1.b An objectÕs motion can be described by tracing and measuring its position over time. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 1.1.a. 1. An objectÕs position can be described by comparing it to the position of another stationary object. One object can be in front of, behind, next to, inside of, above or below another object. 2. The sunÕs position in the daytime sky can be described relative to stationary objects on Earth. For example, the sun can be Òjust above the treetops,Ó Òhigh or low in the sky,Ó or Òon the other side of the school.Ó 3. The description of an objectÕs position from one observerÕs point of view may be different from that reported from a different observerÕs viewpoint. For example, a box of crayons between two students is near SusanÕs left hand but near JohnÕs right hand. 4. When an observer changes position, different words may be needed to describe an objectÕs position. For example, when I am sitting on the bench the sun is ÒbehindÓ me; when I move to the slide, the sun is Òin front ofÓ me. 5. The same object when viewed from close up appears larger than it does when viewed from far away (although the actual size of the object does not change.) For example, a beach ball held in oneÕs arms appears larger than it does when viewed from across the playground. 6. An objectÕs position can be described using words (Ònear the doorÓ), numbers (10 centimeters away from the door) or labeled diagrams. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 1.1.b. 1. Things move in many ways, such as spinning, rolling, sliding, bouncing, flying or sailing. 2. An object is in motion when its position is changing. Because the sunÕs position changes relative to objects on Earth throughout the day, it appears to be moving across the sky. 3. Changes in the sunÕs position throughout the day can be measured by observing changes in shadows outdoors. Shadows occur when light is blocked by an object. An objectÕs shadow appears opposite the light source. Shadow lengths depend on the position of the light source. 4. Motion is caused by a push or a pull. A push or pull is called a force. 5. An object can be set in motion by forces that come from direct contact, moving air, magnets or by gravity pulling it down toward the earth. 6. Pushes and pulls can start motion, stop motion, speed it up, slow it down or change its direction. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: position, motion, shadow, push, pull, force |
1. Compare and contrast the relative positions of objects using words (in front of, behind, next to, inside of, above or below) and numbers (by measuring its distance from another object). 2. Apply direct and indirect pushes and pulls to cause objects to move (change position) in different ways (e.g., straight line, forward and backward, zigzag, in a circle). 3. Classify objects by the way they move (e.g., spinning, rolling, bouncing). 4. Conduct simple experiments and evaluate different ways to change the speed and direction of an objectÕs motion. 5. Observe, record and predict the sunÕs position at different times of day (morning, noon, afternoon or night). 6. Conduct simple investigations of shadows and analyze how shadows change as the relative position of the sun (or an artificial light source) changes. |
A10. Describe how the motion of objects can be changed by pushing and pulling. A11. Describe the apparent movement of the sun across the sky and the changes in the length and direction of shadows during the day. |
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Structure and
Function - How are organisms structured to ensure efficiency and survival? NEW HAVEN GRADE 1 UNIT 4 STC ORGANISMS Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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1.2 — Living things have different structures and behaviors that allow them to meet their basic needs. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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1.2.a. Animals need
air, water and food to survive. 1.2.b. Plants need air, water and sunlight to survive. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 1.2.a. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 1.2.b. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: organism, plant, animal, energy, breathe, lungs, gills, absorb |
1. Infer from direct observation and print or electronic information that most animals and plants need water, food and air to stay alive. 2. Identify structures and behaviors used by mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish and insects to move around, breathe and obtain food and water (e.g., legs/wings/fins, gills/lungs, claws/fingers, etc.) 3. Sort and classify plants (or plant parts) by observable characteristics (e.g., leaf shape/size, stem or trunk covering, flower or fruit). 4. Use senses and simple measuring tools to measure the effects of water and sunlight on plant growth. 5. Compare and contrast information about animals and plants found in fiction and nonfiction sources. |
A12. Describe the different ways that animals, including humans, obtain water and food. A13. Describe the different structures plants have for obtaining water and sunlight. A14. Describe the structures that animals, including humans, use to move around. |
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Properties of Matter
- How does the structure of matter affect the properties and uses of
materials? New Haven: GRADE 2 Unit 1 STC Solids/Liquids Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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2.1 — Materials can be classified as solid, liquid or gas based on their observable properties. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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2.1.a Solids tend to maintain their own shapes, while liquids tend to assume the shapes of their containers, and gases fill their containers fully. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: property, classify, matter, state of matter, solid, liquid, gas, volume |
1. Compare and contrast the properties that distinguish solids, liquids and gases. 2. Classify objects and materials according to their state of matter. 3. Measure and compare the sizes of different solids. 4. Measure and compare the volume of a liquid poured into different containers. 5. Design a fair test to compare the flow rates of different liquids and granular solids. |
A18. Describe differences in the physical properties
of solids and liquids. |
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The Changing Earth -
How do materials cycle through the Earth's systems? New Haven : GRADE 2 Unit 2: STC/DSM Soils Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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2.3 — Earth materials have varied physical properties that make them useful in different ways. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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2.3.a. Soils
can be described by their color, texture and capacity to retain water. 2.3.b. Soils support the growth of many kinds of plants, including those in our food supply. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 2.3.a. 1. Soil is a mixture of pieces of rock (particles), living and once living things (humus), water and air. The components of soil can be separated using sieves and settlement tests. 2. There are different types of soil that vary from place to place. Soil properties can be observed and compared. Soils can be classified by properties such as color, particle size, or amount of organic material (humus). Digging a deep hole shows that soils are often found in layers that have different colors and textures. 3. The size of the particles in soils gives the soil its texture. Soils can be classified by how they feel: Sandy soils feel gritty, silty soils feel powdery, clay soils feel sticky, and soils with small rocks feel rough and scratchy. 4. The broken rocks that make up soils can be tiny (silt and clay), medium (sand), or large (pebbles). Soils can be classified by the size of their particles. 5. A soilÕs texture affects how it packs together; soils that pack together tightly hold less air and water than soils that stay loosely packed. 6. There are different types of soil that vary from place to place. Some soil types are suited for supporting the weight of buildings and highways; other soil types are suited for planting food crops or forest growth. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 2.3.b. 1. Many plants need soil to grow. Soil holds water and nutrients that are taken in (absorbed) by plant roots. 2. Soil is a habitat for many living things. Some organisms live in the soil and others live on the soil. Worms and other underground animals create spaces for air, water and plant roots to move through soil. 3. Plants we eat (ÒcropsÓ) grow in different soil types. Plant height, root length, number of leaves, and number of flowers can all be affected by how much water, air and organic material the soil holds. 4. To support the growth of different plants, people can change the properties of soils by adding nutrients (fertilizing), water (irrigating) or air (tilling). SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: soil, property, classify, mixture, particle, humus, sand, silt, clay, texture, nutrients |
1. Use senses and simple tools (e.g., sieves and settlement tests) to separate soil into components such as rock fragments, water, air and plant remains. 2. Classify soils by properties such as color, particle size (sand, silt or clay), or amount of organic material (loam). 3. Explain the importance of soil to plants, animals and people. 4. Evaluate the quality of different soils in terms of observable presence of air, water, living things and plant remains. 5. Conduct fair tests to investigate how different soil types affect plant growth and write conclusions supported by evidence. |
A21. Sort different soils by properties, such as particle size, color and composition. A22. Relate the properties of different soils to their capacity to retain water and support the growth of certain plants. |
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Science and
Technology in Society - How do science and technology affect the quality of
our lives? New Haven GRADE 2: Unit 3 UNH Nutrition Unit /PANA Nutrition , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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2.4 Human beings, like all other living things, have special nutritional needs for survival. This content standard is an application of the
concepts in content standard 2.3 and should be integrated into the same unit. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
Assessment |
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2.4.a. The essential
components of balanced nutrition can be obtained from plant and animal
sources. 2.4.b. People eat different foods in order to satisfy nutritional needs for carbohydrates, proteins and fats. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 2.4.a. 1.
People need to eat a
variety of foods to get the energy and nutrients they need to grow, move and
stay healthy. Foods are
classified as grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats and beans, and oils. 2.
Some foods people
eat come from plants that grow wild or are planted by farmers as crops. A
fruit is the ripened ovary of a flower; vegetables are the roots, stems,
leaves or flowers of plants.
3.
Some foods people
eat come from animals that are wild or are raised on ranches. Meat, fish, dairy products and eggs
all come from animals. 4.
The types of crops
that can grow in an area depend on the climate and soil. Some foods are grown and sold by local
farms, and some foods are grown far away and transported to local grocery
stores. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 2.4.b. 1.
All people need the
same basic nutrients to grow, move and stay healthy; different cultures
satisfy these needs by consuming different foods. 2.
The level of energy
and nutrients individuals need depends on their age, gender and how active
they are. 3.
Most foods contain a
combination of nutrients. Labels on food packages describe the nutrients
contained in the food and how much energy the food provides (calories). 4.
Breads, cereals, rice and pasta are sources of
carbohydrates, which provide energy. 5.
Meat, poultry, fish,
beans, eggs and nuts are sources of protein, which keeps the body working
properly. 6.
Fruits and vegetables are sources of vitamins
and minerals, which keep the body healthy. 7.
Nuts, meats and fish are sources of fats and
oils, which provide energy. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: nutrient, crop, grain, carbohydrate, protein, dairy, fats, oils, energy |
1. Explain that food is a source of carbohydrates, protein and fats —nutrients that animals (including humans) convert to energy they use to stay alive and grow. 2. Classify foods into groups based on their source, and relate common foods to the plant or animal from which they come. 3. Give examples of ways people can improve soil quality and crop growth (e.g., irrigation, fertilizer, pest control). 4. Compare and contrast how different cultures meet needs for basic nutrients by consuming various foods. 5. Evaluate the nutritional value of different foods by analyzing package labels. |
A23. Identify the sources of common foods and classify them by their basic food groups. A24. Describe how people in different cultures use different food sources to meet their nutritional needs. |
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Structure and
Function - How are organisms structured to ensure efficiency and survival? NEW HAVEN: GRADE 2 UNIT 4 STC Butterflies Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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1.3 — Organisms change in form and behavior as part of their life cycles. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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1.3.a. Some organisms undergo metamorphosis during their life cycles; other organisms grow and change, but their basic form stays essentially the same. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY
TERMINOLOGY: life cycle, egg, metamorphosis, structures (body
parts), amphibian, tadpole, gills, lungs, insect, caterpillar |
1. Explain that living things experience a life cycle that includes birth, growth, reproduction and death. 2. Distinguish between animals that are born alive (e.g., humans, dogs, cows) and those that hatch from eggs (e.g., chickens, sea turtles, crocodiles). 3. Compare and contrast the changes in structure and behavior that occur during the life cycles of animals that undergo metamorphosis with those that do not. 4. Analyze recorded observations to compare the metamorphosis stages of different animals and make predictions based on observed patterns. |
A15. Describe the changes in organisms, such as frogs and butterflies, as they undergo metamorphosis. A16. Describe the life cycles of organisms that grow but do not metamorphose. |
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Grades 3-5
Core Scientific Inquiry, Literacy and Numeracy , www.newhavenscience.org How
is scientific knowledge created and communicated? |
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Content Standards |
Expected Performances |
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SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY 1.
Scientific inquiry is a thoughtful and coordinated attempt to search
out, describe, explain and predict natural phenomena. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY 2.
Scientific literacy includes speaking, listening, presenting,
interpreting, reading and writing about science. SCIENTIFIC NUMERACY 3. Mathematics provides
useful tools for the description, analysis and presentation of scientific
data and ideas. |
B INQ.1
Make observations and ask questions about objects, organisms and the
environment. B INQ.2
Seek relevant information in books, magazines and electronic media. B INQ.3
Design and conduct simple investigations. B INQ.4
Employ simple equipment and measuring tools to gather data and extend
the senses. B INQ.5
Use data to construct reasonable explanations. B INQ.6
Analyze, critique and communicate investigations using words, graphs
and drawings. B INQ.7
Read and write a variety of science-related fiction and nonfiction
texts. B INQ.8
Search the Web and locate relevant science information. B INQ.9
Use measurement tools and standard units (e.g., centimeters, meters,
grams, kilograms) to describe objects and materials. B INQ.10 Use mathematics to
analyze, interpret and present data. |
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The Changing Earth -
How do materials cycle through the Earth's systems? New Haven : GRADE 3 Unit 1 STC Rocks Kit (School Kits) (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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3.3 — Earth materials have different physical and chemical properties. |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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3.3.a. Rocks and minerals have properties that may be identified through observation and testing; these properties determine how earth materials are used. |
1. Earth is mainly made of rock. Rocks on the earthÕs surface are constantly being broken down into smaller and smaller pieces, from mountains to boulders, stones, pebbles and small particles that make up soil. 2. Rocks can be sorted based on properties, such as shape, size, color, weight or texture. 3. Properties of rocks can be used to identify the conditions under which they were formed. 4. Igneous rocks are formed when melted rock cools, hardens and forms crystals. Melted rock that cools slowly inside a volcano forms large crystals as it cools. Melted rock that cools rapidly on the earthÕs surface forms small crystals (or none at all). 5. Sedimentary rocks are formed underwater when small particles of sand, mud, silt or ancient shells/skeletons settle to the bottom in layers that are buried and cemented together over a long period of time. They often have visible layers or fossils. 6. Metamorphic rocks are formed when igneous or sedimentary rocks are reheated and cooled or pressed into new forms. They often have bands, streaks or clumps of materials. 7. Rock properties make them useful for different purposes. Rocks that can be cut into regular shapes are useful for buildings and statues; rocks that crumble easily are useful for making mixtures such as concrete and sheetrock. 8. All rocks are made of materials called minerals that have properties that may be identified by testing. Mineral properties include color, odor, streak, luster, hardness and magnetism. 9. Minerals are used in many ways, depending on their properties. For example, gold is a mineral that is easily shaped to make jewelry; talc is a mineral that breaks into tiny grains useful for making powders. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: property, classify, texture, igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, fossil, crystal, mineral |
1. Differentiate between rocks and minerals. 2. Use the senses and simple measuring tools to gather data about various rocks and classify them based on observable properties (e.g., shape, size, color, weight, visible markings). 3. Conduct simple tests to determine properties of different minerals (e.g. color, odor, streak, luster, hardness, magnetism), organize data in a table, and use the data and other resources to identify unknown mineral specimens. 4. Summarize nonfiction text to compare and contrast the conditions under which igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks are formed. 5. Observe and analyze rock properties (e.g., crystal size or layers) to infer the conditions under which the rock was formed. 6. Evaluate the usefulness of different rock types for specific applications (e.g., buildings, sidewalks, stone walls, statues or monuments). |
B5. Describe the physical properties of rocks and relate them to their potential uses. B6. Relate the properties of rocks to the possible environmental conditions during their formation. |
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Properties of Matter
- How does the structure of matter affect the properties and uses of
materials? New Haven: GRADE 3 Unit 2 STC Chemical Tests Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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3.1 Materials have properties that can be identified and described through the use of simple tests. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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3.1.a. Heating and
cooling cause changes in some of the properties of materials. |
1. Materials have properties that are directly observable; examples include its state of matter, or its size, shape, color or texture. Other properties can only be observed by doing something to the material (simple tests). Materials can be sorted and classified based on their testable properties. 2. Some materials dissolve (disappear) when mixed in water; others accumulate on the top or the bottom of the container. The temperature of water can affect whether, and at what rate, materials dissolve in it. 3. Some materials, such as sponges, papers and fabrics, absorb water better than others. 4. Some materials float when placed in water (or other liquids such as cooking oil or maple syrup); others sink to the bottom of the container. 5. Some materials conduct heat better than others. Materials that are poor heat conductors are useful for keeping things cold or hot. 6. Some materials are attracted to magnets. Magnetic materials contain iron. 7. The physical properties of a material can be changed, but the material remains the same. For example, a block of wood can be cut, sanded or painted, but it is still wood. 8. Heating and cooling cause materials to change from one state of matter to another and back again. Adding heat can cause solids to melt into liquids (for example, chocolate, ice cream, butter or wax); removing heat (cooling) can cause liquids to harden into solids (for example, hot candle wax hardens as it cools). 9. Adding heat can cause water to boil and evaporate into a gas in the air (for example, steam rises from heated water); removing heat (cooling) can cause water vapor to condense into liquid water (for example, warm steam hitting a cold mirror). Water outdoors or in an open container evaporates without boiling (for example, puddles, ponds, fish tanks, etc.) 10. Water may exist as a solid, liquid or gas, depending on its temperature. If water is turned into ice and then the ice is allowed to melt, the amount of water is the same as it was before freezing. 11. Liquid water becomes solid water (ice) when its temperature cools to 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Warming ice to a temperature above 0 degrees Celsius causes it to melt into liquid water. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: physical property, state of matter, solid, liquid, gas, dissolve, absorb, conduct, attract, melt, freeze, boil, evaporate, condense |
1. Compare and contrast the properties of solids, liquids and gases. 2. Demonstrate that solids, liquids and gases are all forms of matter that take up space and have weight. 3. Carry out simple tests to determine if materials dissolve, sink or float in water, conduct heat or attract to magnets. 4. Classify materials based on their observable properties, including state of matter. 5. Design and conduct fair tests to investigate the absorbency of different materials, write conclusions based on evidence, and analyze why similar investigations might produce different results. 6. Explain the role of heating and cooling in changing matter from one state to another during freezing, melting, evaporation and condensation. |
B1. Sort and classify materials based on properties such as dissolving in water, sinking and floating, conducting heat, and attracting to magnets. B2. Describe the effect of heating on the melting, evaporation, condensation and freezing of water. |
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Science and Technology in Society - How do
science and technology affect the quality of our lives? New Haven: GRADE 3 Unit 3 Recycling (includes Soggy Paper Embedded Task) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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3.4 – Earth materials provide resources for all living things, but these resources are limited and should be conserved. This content standard is an application of the
concepts in content standards 3.1 and 3.3 should be integrated within one of
those units. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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3.4.a. Decisions made by individuals can affect the global supply of many resources. |
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: natural resources, recycle |
1. Describe ways people use earth materials, such as fossil fuels, trees, water, soils and rocks as natural resources to improve their lives. 2. Summarize nonfiction text to explain how humans use technology to access and use natural resources to produce electricity or other products (e.g., paper or concrete). 3. Explain advantages and disadvantages of renewable and nonrenewable energy sources that can be used for making electricity, fueling cars or heating homes. 4. Design and conduct experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of different insulating materials for keeping a substance (or space) warm or cold (i.e., conducting heat). 5. Use mathematics to estimate, measure and graph the quantity of a natural resource (e.g., water, paper) used by an individual (or group) in a certain time period. 6. Distinguish among reducing, reusing, recycling and replacing as conservation techniques. |
B7. Describe how earth materials can be conserved by
reducing the quantities used, and by reusing and recycling materials rather
than discarding them. |
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Structure and
Function - How are organisms structured to ensure efficiency and survival? New Haven GRADE 3 Unit 4 STC Plants Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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2.2 — Plants change their forms as part of their life cycles. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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2.2.a. The life cycles of flowering plants include seed germination, growth, flowering, pollination and seed dispersal. |
1.
Flowering plants progress through a sequenced
life cycle. First, seeds sprout
(germinate), then seedlings grow into adult plants with leaves and
flowers. If the flowers are
pollinated, seeds develop that will grow into new plants to continue the life
cycle. 2. Roots, stems, leaves, flowers and seeds are structures that develop during different stages of the plantÕs life cycle. 3.
Seeds contain the beginnings of a new plant
(embryo) and the food (energy source) the new plant needs to grow until it is
mature enough to produce its own food.
Different plant varieties produce seeds of different size, color and
shape. 4. Environmental conditions, such as temperature, amount of light, amount of water and type of soil, affect seed germination and plant development. 5.
A plantÕs seed will grow into a new plant that
resembles but is not identical to the parent plant or to other new
plants. For example, marigold
plants produce marigold seeds that grow into new marigold plants. Individual marigolds, however, vary in
height, number of leaves, etc. 6.
Seedlings are young plants that produce the
structures that will be needed by the plant to survive in its environment:
Roots and leaves begin to grow and take in nutrients, water and air; and the
stem starts to grow towards sunlight.
7.
Adult plants form more leaves that help the
plant collect sunlight and air to make its food. They produce flowers that are the
structures responsible for reproduction.
8.
Flowers have structures that produce pollen,
attract pollinators and produce seeds that can grow into new plants. Some flowers have structures that
develop into fruits, berries or nuts that contain the seeds that can grow
into new plants. 9.
Some seeds fall to the ground and germinate
close to the parent plant; other seeds are carried (dispersed) by wind,
animals, or water to places far away. The structure of the seed is
related to the way it is dispersed. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: life cycle, structures (body parts), seed, germinate, reproduce, flower, pollen, pollinator, seed dispersal |
1. Use senses and simple tools to observe and describe the roots, stems, leaves, flowers and seeds of various plants (including trees, vegetables and grass.) 2. Use magnifiers to observe and diagram the parts of a flower. 3. Describe the functions of roots, stems, leaves, flowers and seeds in completing a plantÕs life cycle. 4. Record observations and make conclusions about the sequence of stages in a flowering plantÕs life cycle. 5. Compare and contrast how seeds of different plants are adapted for dispersal by water, wind or animals. 6. Conduct a fair test to explore factors that affect seed germination and plant growth. |
A19. Describe the life cycles of flowering plants as they grow from seeds, proceed through maturation and produce new seeds. A20. Explore and describe the effects of light and water on seed germination and plant growth. |
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Heredity and
Evolution - What processes are responsible for lifeÕs unity and diversity? New Haven: GRADE 3 Unit 4 STC Plant Growth Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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3.2 — Organisms can survive and reproduce only in environments that meet their basic needs. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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3.2.a. Plants and animals have structures and behaviors that help them survive in different environments. |
1. Plants and animals have physical and behavioral adaptations that allow them to survive in certain environments. Adaptations are passed from parents to offspring. Individuals that happen to be bigger, stronger or faster can have an advantage over others of the same kind for finding food and mates. 2. Animals have behavioral and structural adaptations for getting food. Structural adaptations include things such as specialized teeth for tearing meat or grinding grasses; specialized beaks for cracking seeds, snatching insects, tearing meat or spearing fish; sharp claws for grasping; keen sense of smell, or long, sticky tongues for reaching food. Behavioral adaptations include actions such as following herds of prey animals, spinning webs or stalking. 3. Animals have behavioral and structural adaptations for protection from predators. Some animals have camouflage that allows them to stay concealed by blending in with their surroundings; some animals look like other animals to avoid being eaten. Structural adaptations include things such as sharp quills, hard shells or antlers. Behavioral adaptations include actions such as staying absolutely still, producing a bad odor, appearing or sounding scary, or fleeing. 4. Animals
have behavioral and structural adaptations for surviving harsh environmental
conditions. Animals that live in
cold climates have insulating body coverings such as blubber, down or thick
undercoats that keep them warm.
Animals that live in hot climates keep cool by releasing heat from big
ears or by panting, or by living underground. Some animals survive seasonal
changes by slowing down body functions (hibernating in dens, tunnels or mud)
or moving to more favorable conditions (migrating). 5. Plants have adaptations for getting the sunlight they need to survive. Examples include growing or facing toward sunlight and sending out chutes or tendrils to get taller than neighboring plants. 6. Plants have adaptations for protection from predators. Examples include spines, thorns and toxins (for example, poison ivy). 7. Plants have adaptations for surviving in different environmental conditions. Examples include dropping leaves in winter when sunlight and water are limited, having needle-shaped leaves that shed snow, or surviving drought by storing water in thick stems. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: adaptation, advantage, camouflage, hibernation, migration |
1. Compare and contrast the external features and behaviors that enable different animals and plants (including those that are extinct) to get food, water and sunlight; find mates; and be protected in specific land and water habitats. 2. Explain how behaviors such as hibernation, dormancy and migration give species advantages for surviving unfavorable environmental conditions. 3. Give examples of ways animals benefit from camouflage. 4. Evaluate whether an adaptation gives a plant or animal a survival advantage in a given environment. 5. Design a model of an organism whose adaptations give it an advantage in a specific environment. |
B3. Describe how different plants and animals are adapted to obtain air, water, food and protection in specific land habitats. B4. Describe how different plants and animals are adapted to obtain air, water, food and protection in water habitats. |
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Forces and Motion -
What makes objects move the way they do? New Haven : GRADE 4 Unit 1 STC Motion?Design Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org (as well as inquiry standards) |
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4.1 — The position and motion of objects can be changed by pushing or pulling. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
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4.1.a. The size of
the change in an objectÕs motion is related to the strength of the push or
pull. 4.1. b. The more massive an object is, the less effect a given
force will have on its motion. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 4.1.a.
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 4.1.b.
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: motion, force, speed, gravity, friction, mass |
1. Demonstrate that a force can cause an object to start moving, stop, or change speed or direction. 2. Use measurement tools and standard units to compare and contrast the motion of common objects such as toy cars, balls, model rockets or planes in terms of change in position, speed and direction. 3. Design and conduct experiments to determine how the motion of an object is related to the mass of the object and the strength of the force applied. 4. Describe how friction forces caused by air resistance or interactions between surface materials affect the motion of objects. 5. Predict the effect of an objectÕs mass on its motion. |
B8. Describe the effects of the strengths of pushes and pulls on the motion of objects. B9. Describe the effect of the mass of an object on its motion. |
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Matter and Energy in
Ecosystems - How do matter and energy flow through ecosystems? New Haven: GRADE 4 Unit 2 UNH Ecosystems, Literacy habitats books, www.newhavenscience.org |
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4.2 — All organisms depend on the living and nonliving features of the environment for survival. |
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4.2.a. When the environment changes, some organisms survive and reproduce, and others die or move to new locations. |
1. Living and nonliving things interact in land and water
environments called ecosystems.
Every ecosystem has certain conditions (Òabiotic factorsÓ) and a
variety of living things (ÒorganismsÓ) that are adapted for survival in those
conditions. Abiotic factors
include the quality and amount of air, sunlight, water and soil, as well as
the terrain and climate. 2. Organisms depend on other organisms and on the nonliving
things in an ecosystem to meet their basic needs for food, water and
protection. 3. Plants use energy from the sun to produce their own food from air and water. The type of soil, amount of water and temperature range in an area determine the plants that grow there. 4. Animals that live in an area get their energy and nutrients either directly or indirectly from plants that grow there: herbivores consume only plants, carnivores consume animals, and omnivores consume both animals and plants. Decomposers consume plant and animal waste and remains, returning nutrients to the soil where they are used again by plants. 5. Some of the sunÕs energy is transferred from one organism to another when a plant or animal is consumed by another animal. A food chain is a simple model that illustrates the passage of energy from one organism to another. Food webs are more realistic models that show the varied energy-passing relationships among plants and animals in an ecosystem. 6. Environments are always changing. Some changes occur naturally (examples include disease outbreaks, violent storms, forest fires sparked by lightning). Other changes are caused by human activity (examples include establishing conservation areas, passing laws to control pollution, clearing forests for agriculture or construction, applying chemicals to lawns and crops, burning fossil fuels, etc.). 7. Changes in an environment are sometimes beneficial to organisms and sometimes harmful. For example, a newly created beaver pond provides habitat that attracts frogs and raccoons to an area; but trees, earthworms and moles are no longer able to survive in the area. 8. When environments change, some organisms can accommodate the change by eating different foods or finding different shelters (for example, hawks nest on city buildings and consume pigeons and rats). Those organisms that can no longer meet their basic needs die or move to new locations. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY
TERMINOLOGY: ecosystem, organism, abiotic factors, nutrient,
producer, consumer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, food chain,
food web |
1. Give examples of ways that living and nonliving things are interdependent within an ecosystem. 2. Draw diagrams showing how the sunÕs energy enters and is transferred from producers to consumers in a local land or aquatic food chain. 3. Design and conduct simple investigations to record interactions among producers, consumers, herbivores, carnivores, omnivores and decomposers in an ecosystem. 4. Analyze food webs to describe how energy is transferred from plants to various animals in an ecosystem. 5. Distinguish between naturally occurring changes in ecosystems and those caused by human activity. 6. Predict the effect an environmental change, such as drought or forest destruction, might have on the community of living things. |
B10. Describe how animals, directly or indirectly, depend on plants to provide the food and energy they need to grow and survive. B11. Describe how natural phenomena and some human activities may cause changes to habitats and their inhabitants. |
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Energy in the
Earth's Systems - How do external and internal sources of energy affect the
Earth's systems? New Haven: GRADE 4 Unit 3 STC Land/Water Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org |
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4.3 — Water has a major role in shaping the Earth's surface. |
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Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
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4.3.a. Water circulates through the Earth's crust, oceans and atmosphere. |
1. Water is continuously moving between EarthÕs surface and the atmosphere in a process called the water cycle. The energy that causes the water cycle comes from the sun. 2. Most precipitation that falls to Earth goes directly into oceans. Some precipitation falls on land and accumulates in lakes and ponds or moves across the land. 3. Rain or snowmelt in high elevations flows downhill in many streams which collect in lower elevations to form a river that flows downhill to an ocean. 4. Water moving across the earth pushes along soil and breaks down pieces of rock in a process called erosion. Moving water carries away rock and soil from some areas and deposits them in other areas, creating new landforms or changing the course of a stream or river. 5. The amount of erosion in an area, and the type of earth material that is moved, are affected by the amount of moving water, the speed of the moving water, and by how much vegetation covers the area. 6. Rivers carve out valleys as they move between mountains or hills. The speed of the riverÕs flow depends on the slope of the land. The speed of the riverÕs flow affects the shape of the riverÕs course (straight or meandering), the shape of the valleys it carves (u-shaped or v-shaped) and the amount of earth material that is pushed along or left behind in floodplains and deltas. 7. Water moving in ocean waves carries sand, shells and debris away from some coastal areas and deposits them in new areas, changing the shape of the coastline. 8. Erosion is constantly reshaping the earthÕs land surface. Sometimes the effects of erosion are immediate (for example, a flash flood or a hurricane) and sometimes the effects of erosion take a long time (for example, the changing course of a river or the carving of the Grand Canyon). SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: water cycle, evaporate, condense, precipitation, erosion, valley, floodplain, delta |
1. Describe the role of the sunÕs energy (i.e., heating and cooling) in the continuous cycling of water between the earth and the atmosphere through evaporation, condensation and precipitation. 2. Use models to demonstrate that topography causes precipitation landing on Earth to move in streams and rivers from higher to lower elevations. 3. Design and conduct simple investigations to determine how moving water (flowing downhill or in ocean waves) causes changes to the land, the coastline or the course of a stream or river. 4. Pose testable questions and employ simple equipment and measuring tools to collect data about factors that affect erosion (e.g., type of earth material in an area, volume of moving water, slope of land, vegetation coverage). 5. Present evidence to support a scientific claim about the relationship between the amount and speed of moving water and the size of earth materials moved (e.g., silt, pebbles, boulders). |
B12. Describe how the sunÕs energy impacts the water cycle. B13. Describe the role of water in erosion and river formation. |
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Energy Transfer and Transformations - What
is the role of energy in our world? New Haven: GRADE 4 Unit 4 STC Electric Circuits Kit includes Go With the Flow Embedded Task (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org |
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4.4 — Electrical and magnetic energy can be transferred and transformed. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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4.4.a. Electricity
in circuits can be transformed into light, heat, sound and magnetic effects. 4.4.b. Magnets can make objects move without direct contact between the object and the magnet. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 4.4.a. 1. Electric current flows (is transferred) from an energy source (battery) through a continuous loop (circuit) and back to the source. A complete circuit (also called a closed circuit) forms a closed loop that allows electric current to flow; an incomplete circuit (also called an open circuit) has a break in the loop that prevents the flow of electric current. 2. Complete circuits can be made by connecting wires, batteries and bulbs in certain sequences. Circuits are completed only when certain parts of a battery, a bulb or a wire are touching (making contact). Circuit diagrams show the relative positions of batteries, bulbs and wires in complete circuits. 3. Conductors are materials that allow electric current to flow through them in an electric circuit. An open circuit can be completed by inserting a conductive material. If a bulb stays lit when an object is added to an electric circuit, the material is a conductor. 4. Insulators are materials that do not allow electric current to flow through them in an electric circuit. If a bulb does not stay lit when an object is added to an electric circuit, the material is an insulator. 5. Conductors can be tested to compare how easily they allow electricity to flow through them. 6. Electrical energy is changed (transformed) into light and heat energy as it passes through a bulb in a circuit. Electrical energy can be transformed into sound energy as it passes through a bell or a radio in a circuit. 7. Adding batteries or bulbs to a circuit can produce observable changes. 8. Electricity flowing through an electrical circuit produces magnetic effects in the wires. The electromagnet can be turned on and off, and its strength can be varied and measured. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 4.4.b. 1. Magnets pull on (ÒattractÓ) objects made of iron or that have iron in them. Materials can be identified using magnets, and mixtures of materials can be separated using magnets. 2. Some areas of a magnet have stronger magnetic attraction than other areas. 3. Magnets can pull (attract) or push (repel) other magnets. 4. The ends of a magnet are called Òpoles.Ó A magnetÕs poles are often referred to as ÒnorthÓ and Òsouth.Ó When the north pole of one magnet is placed near the north pole of another magnet, they repel each other; when the south pole of one magnet is placed near the south pole of another magnet, they repel each other; when the north pole of one magnet is placed near the south pole of another magnet, they attract each other. 5. A magnetÕs push or pull can cause a magnetic object or another magnet to move without direct contact. The strength of a magnetÕs attractive force can be measured by recording the number or mass of the objects it attracts or the distance across which it attracts objects. 6. When a magnet, or a magnetized object such as a compass needle, is allowed to swing freely, its ends will point toward the earthÕs magnetic north and south poles. 7.
Magnets and electromagnets have many uses in
everyday life. Examples may
include paper clip containers, refrigerator door seals, shower curtain
weights, or a compass. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: magnet, attract (attraction), repel (repulsion), iron, pole, force, electric current, energy source, battery, contact, complete (closed) circuit, incomplete (open) circuit, conductor, insulator |
1. Construct complete (closed) and incomplete (open) series circuits in which electrical energy is transformed into heat, light, sound and/or motion energy. 2. Draw labeled diagrams of complete and incomplete circuits, explain necessary components and how components can be arranged to make a complete circuit. 3. Predict whether diagrammed circuit configurations will light a bulb. 4. Develop a method for testing conductivity and analyze data to generalize that metals are generally good electrical conductors and nonmetals are not. 5. Observe magnetic effects associated with electricity and investigate factors that affect the strength of an electromagnet. 6. Describe materials that are attracted by magnets. 7. Design procedures to move objects and separate mixtures of solids using magnets. 8. Investigate how magnets react with other magnets and analyze findings to identify patterns in the interactions between north and south poles of magnets. 9. Give examples of uses of magnets (e.g., motors, generators, household devices). |
B14. Describe how batteries and wires can transfer energy to light a bulb. B15. Explain how simple electrical circuits can be used to determine which materials conduct electricity. B16. Describe the properties of magnets, and how they can be used to identify and separate mixtures of solid materials. |
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Energy Transfer and
Transformations -What is the role of energy in our world? New Haven: GRADE 5 Unit 1 UNH Sound Kit , www.newhavenscience.org |
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5.1 — Sound and light are forms of energy. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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5.1.a. Sound is a form of energy that is produced by the vibration of objects and is transmitted by the vibration of air and objects |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 5.1.a. 1. There are a variety of sounds in our environment. Sounds have characteristics, such as loudness, pitch and quality (or ÒtimbreÓ), that allow them to be identified. 2. For sound to occur, there must be a vibrating object, a material through which the vibrations are transferred (for example, air or water), and a receiver (for example, an ear) to perceive the sound. 3. Objects can be caused to vibrate by actions such as striking, strumming, bowing, plucking or blowing. 4. Sounds can vary in loudness (ÒvolumeÓ). Volume is affected by the strength of the force causing the vibration. For example, striking a drum forcefully or gently produces sounds with different volumes. 5. Sounds can have a high or low tone (ÒpitchÓ). The pitch of a sound depends on the speed of the vibration. Objects that vibrate quickly have a high pitch, while those that vibrate slowly have a low pitch. 6. Pitch is affected by characteristics such as the shape, length, tension or thickness of the vibrating material (for example, the vibrating material may be a string, a glass, a wire or a drum). 7. Sound travels (is ÒtransmittedÓ) through materials by causing them to vibrate. Sound is not transmitted if there are no materials to vibrate. Solids, liquids and gases (air) transmit sound differently. 8.
Sounds can be reflected or absorbed, depending
on the properties of the material it hits. Sound tends to bounce off smooth, hard
surfaces, producing an echo; sound tends to be absorbed by soft, porous
surfaces, producing a muffled sound. |
1. Generalize that vibrating objects produce sound if the vibrations are transferred from the object through another material (e.g., air, a solid, or a liquid). 2. Demonstrate how the loudness, pitch and quality/timbre of sound can be varied. 3. Design and conduct investigations to determine factors that affect pitch. 4. Describe the properties of materials that reflect or absorb sound. 5. Analyze properties of materials that cause sound to be reflected or absorbed, then apply findings to design a device that reflects or absorbs sound. 6. Construct simple musical instruments (e.g., rubber band guitars, drums, etc.) that produce sounds with various pitches, volume and timbres. |
B17. Describe the factors that affect the pitch and loudness of sound produced by vibrating objects. |
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Energy Transfer and Transformations
-What is the role of energy in our world? New Haven: GRADE 5 Unit 2 GEMS Color Analyzers/More Than Magnifiers Light Kit , www.newhavenscience.org |
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5.1 — Sound and light are forms of energy. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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5.1.b. Light is a
form of energy that travels in a straight line and can be reflected by a
mirror, refracted by a lens, or absorbed by objects. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 5.1.b. 1. Light travels in straight paths away from a source of illumination in all directions until it hits an object. Some sources of illumination produce their own light (for example, the sun, fire, light bulb); other sources of illumination reflect light produced by something else (for example, the moon or a mirror). 2. Light interacts with objects in various ways; it can be reflected off the object, absorbed by the object, or refracted through the object. 3. Materials can be classified based on how much light passes through them. Transparent materials allow most light to pass through them. Translucent materials allow some light to pass through them. Opaque materials do not allow any light to pass through them. 4. Objects that have flat, smooth surfaces reflect light and produce a mirror-like image. Objects that have curved or uneven surfaces scatter the reflected light and produce distorted or blurry images. 5. Light always reflects away from a mirror at the same angle that it hits the mirror. The angle of incoming light equals the angle of reflected light. 6. Objects that block light traveling from a source produce shadows. The shape, length, direction and clarity of a shadow depend on the shape and position of the object. 7. Light changes direction (ÒrefractsÓ) as it passes from one transparent material to another (for example, as it passes from air to water or through lenses. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: reflect, absorb, refract, transparent,
translucent, opaque, angle, vibration, transfer, volume, pitch,
transmit, reflect, absorb |
1. Provide evidence that light travels in straight lines away from a source in all directions. 2. Investigate how light is refracted as it passes through a lens or through one transparent material to another. 3. Demonstrate that white light is composed of many colors. 4. Explain that all visible objects are reflecting some light to the human eye. 5. Contrast the way light is reflected by a smooth, shiny object (e.g., mirror or pool of water) and how light is reflected by other objects. 6. Measure angles to predict the path of light reflected by a mirror. 7. Determine whether a material is opaque, transparent or translucent based on how light passes through it. Design and conduct light absorption experiments that vary the size, length, direction and clarity of a shadow by changing the position of the light-blocking object or the light source. |
B18. Describe how sound is transmitted, reflected
and/or absorbed by different materials. B19. Describe how light is absorbed and/or
reflected by different surfaces |
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Science and
Technology in Society - How do science and technology affect the quality of
our lives? New Haven GRADE 5: Unit 2 GEMS Light Kits , www.newhavenscience.org |
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5.4 — Humans have the capacity to build and use tools to advance the quality of their lives. This content standard is an application of the
concepts in content standard 5.1 and should be integrated into the same unit. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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5.4.a. Advances in
technology allow individuals to acquire new information about the world. |
1. People design optical tools (for example, binoculars, telescopes, eyeglasses or periscopes) that enable them to see things better or to see what cannot be seen by human eyes alone. Optical tools change the path of light by reflecting or refracting it. 2. Throughout history new optical technologies have led to new discoveries and understandings that change peopleÕs lives. 3. Periscopes allow people to see things that are not within their line of sight (for example, around corners, over walls, under a table, or above the oceanÕs surface from a submerged submarine). 4. Telescopes make distant objects appear larger (and therefore closer). 5. Magnifiers, such as hand lenses, microscopes or make-up mirrors, make objects appear larger. 6. The shape of a lens or mirror (concave, convex or flat) affects the direction in which light travels: a. Telescopes focus light using a lens that refracts the light (refracting telescope) or a curved mirror that reflects the light (reflecting telescope). b. Periscopes use flat mirrors to reflect light to change its path. c. Magnifying glasses use convex lenses to refract light so that objects appear larger. 7. Some human eyes do not focus light properly onto the retina. Eyeglasses are lenses that improve vision by changing the path of light (refracting it) so it forms an image on the retina. 8.
Cameras have parts that function similarly to
the human eye:
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: optical tool, hand lens, magnifying glass, telescope, periscope, lens, mirror, concave, convex, reflect, refract, focus, camera and eye parts (see chart above) |
1. Generalize that optical tools, such as binoculars, telescopes, eyeglasses or periscopes, change the path of light by reflecting or refracting it. 2. Construct simple periscopes and telescopes, and analyze how the placement of their lenses and mirrors affects the quality of the image formed. 3. Evaluate the best optical instrument to perform a given task. 4. Design and conduct simple investigations to determine how the shape of a lens or mirror (concave, convex, flat) affects the direction in which light rays travel. 5. Explain how eyeglasses or contact lenses improve vision by changing the path of light to the retina. 6. Analyze the similarities and differences between structures of the human eye and those of a simple camera. |
B24. Compare and contrast the structures of the human eye with those of the camera. B25. Describe the uses of different instruments, such as eye glasses, magnifiers, periscopes and telescopes, to enhance our vision. |
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Structure and
Function -How are organisms structured to ensure efficiency and survival? New Haven GRADE 5: Unit 3 Senses Includes Catch It Embedded Task , www.newhavenscience.org |
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5.2 Perceiving and responding to information about the environment is critical to the survival of organisms. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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5.2.a The sense organs perceive stimuli from the environment and send signals to the brain through the nervous system. |
4. The human ear is structured to collect sound vibrations from the environment and pass them through the middle ear (eardrum and small bones) and inner ear (hair-lined tubes) to the auditory nerve where they are transformed into electrical signals that are sent to different parts of the brain. 8. Sunlight (or Òwhite lightÓ) is a combination of colors. White light passed through prisms, water droplets or diffraction gratings can be refracted to show its component colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: sense organ, receptor, stimulus, response, nervous system, vibration, reflect, refract, cornea, pupil, iris, lens, retina, white light, absorb |
1. Explain the role of sensory organs in perceiving stimuli (e.g., light/dark, heat/cold, flavors, pain, etc.) 2. Pose testable questions and design experiments to determine factors that affect human reaction time. 3. Conduct simple tests to explore the capabilities of the human senses. 4. Summarize nonfiction text to explain the role of the brain and spinal cord in responding to information received from the sense organs. 5. Identify the major structures of the human eye, ear, nose, skin and tongue, and explain their functions. 6. Draw diagrams showing the straight path of light rays from a source to a reflecting object to the eye, allowing objects to be seen. 7. Describe the properties of different materials and the structures in the human eye enable humans to perceive color. |
B20. Describe how light absorption and reflection allow one to see the shapes and colors of objects. B21. Describe the structure and function of the human senses and the signals they perceive. |
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Earth in the Solar
System - How does the position of Earth in the solar system affect conditions
on our planet? New Haven: GRADE 5 Unit 4 GEMS Earth, Moon, Stars Kit , www.newhavenscience.org |
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5.3 — Most objects in the solar system are in a regular and predictable motion. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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5.3.a. The positions
of the earth and moon relative to the sun explain the cycles of day and
night, and the monthly moon phases. |
1. The sun, Earth and its moon are spherical objects that move in two ways: they spin (rotate) and they change positions relative to each other (revolve). 2. The sun is a star that produces light that travels in straight lines away from the sun in all directions. Light from the sun illuminates objects that reflect light, including Earth and its moon. The side of the earth that is facing the sun experiences daylight; the side of the earth facing away from the sun experiences night. All parts of the earth experience a cycle that includes both day and night, providing evidence that the earth is rotating on its axis. 3. The amount of time it takes for the earth to rotate once on its axis is regular and predictable (24 hours), and is called Òa day.Ó EarthÕs rotation makes it appear as if the sun is moving across the sky from east to west. 4. The moon is a rocky object that revolves around the earth in a circular path called an orbit. The amount of time it takes for the moon to revolve once around the earth is about 29 days and is called a Òlunar month.Ó 5. Half of the moon is always illuminated by the sun. Phases of the moon occur because a different portion of the lit half of the moon is visible from Earth each day as the moon revolves around the earth. 6. The changes in the moonÕs phases occur in a regular and predictable sequence. At predictable periods during the lunar cycle, the moon is visible in either the daytime or the nighttime sky. 7. At the beginning of a lunar month, no lit part of the moon is visible from Earth (new moon). As the moon progresses through the first two quarters of its complete trip around the earth, larger portions of the right side of the moon are illuminated each day. When the moon has completed half its trip around the earth, the full moon is illuminated. During the third and fourth quarters of the moonÕs trip around the earth, the illuminated portion gradually decreases so only the left side is illuminated and finally no lit portion of the moon is visible from Earth again. 8. Like the sun, the moon appears to rise at the eastern horizon and set at the western horizon due to the earthÕs rotation. From one day to the next, when observed at the same time from the same location, the moonÕs position in the sky varies in predictable ways. SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TERMINOLOGY: sphere, illuminate, reflect, rotate, day/night cycle (24-hour rotation period), horizon, orbit, revolve, month (one lunar cycle), moon phase, new moon |
1. Explain the motion of the earth relative to the sun that causes Earth to experience cycles of day and night. 2. Construct models demonstrating EarthÕs rotation on its axis, the moonÕs revolution around the Earth, and the Earth and moon revolving around the sun. 3. Distinguish between the sun as a source of light and the moon as a reflection of that light. 4. Observe and record the moonÕs appearance over time and analyze findings to describe the cyclical changes in its appearance from Earth (moon phases). 5. Relate the moon phases to changes in the moonÕs position relative to the Earth and sun during its 29-day revolution around the Earth. |
B22. Explain the cause of day and night based on the rotation of Earth on its axis. B23. Describe the monthly changes in the appearance of the moon, based on the moonÕs orbit around the Earth. |
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Grades 6-8
Core Scientific Inquiry, Literacy and Numeracy , www.newhavenscience.org How
is scientific knowledge created and communicated? |
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Content
Standards |
Expected Performances |
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SCIENTIFIC
INQUIRY ♦Scientific inquiry is a
thoughtful and coordinated attempt to search out, describe, explain and
predict natural phenomena. ♦Scientific inquiry
progresses through a continuous process of questioning, data collection,
analysis and interpretation. ♦Scientific inquiry
requires the sharing of findings and ideas for critical review by colleagues
and other scientists. SCIENTIFIC
LITERACY ♦Scientific literacy
includes speaking, listening, presenting, interpreting, reading and writing
about science. ♦Scientific literacy also
includes the ability to search for and assess the relevance and credibility
of scientific information found in various print and electronic media. SCIENTIFIC
NUMERACY ♦Scientific numeracy
includes the ability to use mathematical operations and procedures to
calculate, analyze and present scientific data and ideas. |
C INQ.1Identify questions that
can be answered through scientific investigation. C INQ.2Read, interpret and
examine the credibility of scientific claims in different sources of
information. C INQ.3Design and conduct
appropriate types of scientific investigations to answer different questions. C INQ.4Identify independent and
dependent variables, and those variables that are kept constant, when
designing an experiment. C INQ.5Use appropriate tools and
techniques to make observations and gather data. C INQ.6Use mathematical
operations to analyze and interpret data. C INQ.7Identify and present
relationships between variables in appropriate graphs. C INQ.8Draw conclusions and
identify sources of error. C INQ.9Provide explanations to
investigated problems or questions. C INQ.10
Communicate about science in different formats, using relevant
science vocabulary, supporting evidence and clear logic. |
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Matter and Energy in Ecosystems – How do
matter and energy flow through ecosystems? New Haven GRADE 6: Unit 1 Prentice Hall Text/ STC Ecosystems Kit (kits are rotated among schools) , www.newhavenscience.org |
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6.2 — An ecosystem is composed of all the populations that are living in a certain space and the physical factors with which they interact. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able
toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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6.2.a. Populations in ecosystems are affected by biotic factors, such as other populations, and abiotic factors, such as soil and water supply. 6.2.b. Populations in ecosystems can be categorized as producers, consumers and decomposers of organic matter. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 6.2.a. 1. An ecosystem is the complex interplay between the living organisms and physical environment in a specific area. 2. Ecosystems can be categorized into abiotic and biotic components. Abiotic components include nonliving things such as soil, minerals, climate, water, sunlight, and wind. Biotic components include all living things. 3. Interactions among biotic and abiotic factors support the flow of energy and cycling of materials in ecosystems. For example, air temperature, availability of water and amount of wind influence the growth of certain species of plants in an area, plant species provide food for animal populations, and plants and animals cycle oxygen and carbon dioxide. GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 6.2.b. 11. An energy pyramid is a model that shows the use of energy in an ecosystem. A large number of producers and primary consumers support a smaller number of higher-level consumers due to the consumption and loss of energy at each consumer level. |
1. Analyze and interpret how biotic and abiotic factors interact within a given ecosystem. 2. Design and conduct a scientific investigation to explore the porosity and permeability of soils and their ability to support different plant life. 3. Defend the statement, ÒThe sun is the main source of energy on Earth.Ó 4. Express in general terms how plants and other photosynthetic organisms use the sunÕs energy. 5. Investigate and report on the effects of abiotic factors on a plantÕs ability to photosynthesize. 6. Compare and contrast how energy and matter flow in a Connecticut ecosystem emphasizing the interactions among producers, consumers and decomposers. 7. Identify local examples of predator-prey relationships and justify the impact of each type of population on the other. 8. Create and interpret graphs that illustrate the fluctuation of populations over time. 9. Distinguish a food chain from a food web and identify local examples of each. 10. Explain the impact of environmental conditions such as climate, elevation, topography or water quality on food chains. 11. Predict what will happen to a population based upon current trends (fires, disease, overhunting, development) and defend the prediction. |
C4. Describe how abiotic factors, such as temperature, water and sunlight, affect the ability of plants to create their own food through photosynthesis. C5. Explain how populations are affected by predator-prey relationships. C6. Describe common food webs in different Connecticut ecosystems. |
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Energy in the EarthÕs Systems – How do
external and internal sources of energy affect the EarthÕs systems New Haven GRADE 6 Unit 2 Prentice Hall Text/NeoSci/Foss Weather Kits , www.newhavenscience.org |
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6.3
— Variations in the amount of the sunÕs energy hitting the
earthÕs surface affects daily and seasonal weather patterns. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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6.3.a Local and regional weather are affected by the amount of solar energy the area receives and proximity to a large body of water. |
1. Earth is surrounded by layers of gases (atmosphere) that influence the environment and support life. Weather on Earth is caused by the daily changes in the temperature, pressure and amount of moisture in the lower atmosphere. Regions of the earth experience distinct long-term climate conditions caused, in part, by different amounts of solar energy they receive. 2. Heat energy causes molecules to move. The molecules that make up all matter are in constant motion. Solids, liquids and gases differ in the movement and arrangements of their molecules. Molecules in gases move randomly and independently of one another. Molecules in liquids move around each other randomly, but are loosely held together by an attraction force. Molecules in solids are closely locked in a patterned position and can only vibrate back and forth. 3. When heat energy is added to a substance, its molecules move faster (increased temperature) and spread apart from each other (become less densely arranged). When heat energy is removed, molecules move slower (decreased temperature) and come together (become more densely arranged). 4. If enough heat energy is absorbed by a solid or a liquid, the molecules may overcome the forces holding them together and change to a new state of matter. Solids change to liquids (melt) and liquids change to gases (vaporization) when heat energy is absorbed from the surroundings. Conversely, heat energy is given off when gases change to liquids (condensation) or liquids change to solid (freezing). 5. Different surfaces on Earth absorb and release solar energy at different rates. Land has a lower heat capacity than water; therefore land temperatures change more rapidly than water temperatures do. The surface temperature of large bodies of water, such as the oceans that cover a great deal of the earth, affects the temperature of the air above them. 6. EarthÕs atmosphere (air) is a mixture of different amounts of gases (mainly nitrogen, followed by oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapor). Air molecules constantly press on and around objects on Earth (air pressure). Due to the pulling force of EarthÕs gravity, air close to Earth is more dense than air higher in the atmosphere; denser air causes greater air pressure. 11. Weather on Earth is caused by daily variations in the temperature, pressure and humidity of different bodies of air (air masses). Warm, moist, less dense air masses rise, thus decreasing air pressure usually indicates that cloudy, wet, warmer weather is approaching. Cool, dry, denser air masses sink, thus increasing air pressure usually indicates clear, dry, cooler weather is approaching. |
1. Compare the composition and structure of the EarthÕs atmospheric layers. 2. Demonstrate how changes in temperature, pressure, moisture and density of air affect weather patterns (e.g., air masses and air pressure.) 3. Describe in writing how solar energy drives EarthÕs weather systems. 4. Investigate and report on how the introduction of heat affects the motion of particles and the distance between them. 5. Illustrate the transfer of energy as matter changes phase. 6. Design, conduct and report in writing an investigation that reveals different substances absorb and release heat at different rates. 7. Research and give examples of heat transfer and local weather differences in Connecticut. 8. Investigate and explain the movement of local winds, including Òsea breezesÓ and Òland breezes,Ó based upon the uneven heating of the EarthÕs surface and a change in air pressure. 9. Examine and explain that global winds are caused by uneven heating of the EarthÕs surface and the rotation of the Earth. 10. Design a weather forecast based upon collected weather data. |
C7. Describe the effect of heating on the movement of molecules in solids, liquids and gases. C8. Explain how local weather conditions are related to the temperature, pressure and water content of the atmosphere and the proximity to a large body of water. C9. Explain how the uneven heating of the EarthÕs surface causes winds and affects the seasons. |
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Science and Technology in Society – How do
science and technology affect the quality of our lives? New Haven GRADE 6 Unit 3 Prentice Hall Text/ URI
Watersheds Includes DigIn
Embedded Task ,
www.newhavenscience.org |
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6.4 — Water moving across and through earth materials carries with it the products of human activities. This content standard is an application of
the concepts in content standard 6.2 and should be integrated into the same
unit. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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6.4.a Most precipitation that falls on Connecticut eventually reaches Long Island Sound. |
1. Water is essential for life and is a distinguishing feature of Earth among the planets in our solar system. Humans and other organisms use water in various ways. 2. The surface of Earth is largely covered with water, most of which is saltwater found in oceans. Only freshwater is drinkable, and it is found on the land (surface water), beneath the ground (groundwater), and frozen in glaciers. 3. Water is a universal solvent that dissolves and carries many substances through the environment (for example, acid rain, calcium, carbon dioxide, oxygen, salt, metals, etc). Many substances that are dissolved in water may be either harmful (pollutants) or beneficial to organisms (minerals, oxygen, nutrients). Water temperature affects its ability to dissolve substances such as oxygen and salt. 4. Some water that falls to Earth as precipitation soaks into the ground, some evaporates almost immediately, and some moves across earthÕs surfaces filling streams, rivers and reservoirs. Factors affecting whether water seeps into the ground include the amount of rainfall, the length of time it falls, the permeability of the ground surface and subsurface, the saturation of the soil, and the steepness (slope) of the land. 5. Water moving beneath the earthÕs surface is influenced by size of and spaces between the particles in rock and soils. 6. Water moving across the earthÕs surface is affected by the shape and slope of the land and the properties of the surface materials it encounters. The area draining into a river system or other body of water is a watershed. Folds and faults in ConnecticutÕs landform cause water to move generally from north to south, eventually draining into Long Island Sound. 7. Water moving through a watershed picks up, suspends or dissolves various substances produced by nature and by human activities. The quality and usability of water depends on what materials have been picked up, carried and concentrated in the water. 8. Water quality is important to support a variety of aquatic life and for human consumption. Water quality is evaluated by measuring indicators such as levels of dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity and the presence of other dissolved substances. Substances such as heavy metals (e.g., lead and aluminum), sulfur, fertilizers, road salt are pollutants that may be dissolved in surface water or ground water, making the water unhealthy. 9. Water entering Long Island Sound carries with it the products of human use. These pollutants negatively impact the aquatic life, commercial and recreational uses of the Sound. 10. Point source pollution, such as untreated sewage, industrial or recreational waste, can be discharged directly into the Sound if it is not regulated and controlled. 11. Nonpoint source pollution is difficult to trace or control because it originates across the large watershed area that drains into Long Island Sound. A major contaminant reaching Long Island Sound by way of watersheds is nitrogen. 12. Drinking water may come from groundwater sources accessed by drilling wells, or from surface water reservoirs. 13. PeopleÕs use of water adds waste products and harmful materials to the water which must be removed before returning the water to the environment. Wastewater can be purified using various physical, biological and chemical processes. 14. Septic systems use settling and bacterial digestion to break down wastes in a holding tank; then the water is further purified as it is spread across a leaching field and percolates through layers of soil. 15. Sewage treatment facilities are required in densely populated areas. Sewage treatment facilities use multiple filtration, biological and chemical methods to purify water before returning the water to the environment. 16. Laws, regulations and remedial actions have helped to protect and restore water resources. |
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Discuss and chart the reasons why water is essential
for life 2. Observe, analyze and record the unique physical and chemical properties of water. 3. Research the differences in quantities between fresh water (solid and liquid) and salt water covering the EarthÕs surface and report on the impact to humans. 4. Investigate and explain in writing how substances, both harmful and beneficial, dissolve in and are carried by surface and ground water. 5. Use appropriate maps to locate and identify the major watersheds that drain into Long Island Sound and analyze how the topography influences the way water moves in the Long Island Sound watershed. 6. Research and evaluate in writing the effects of common point and non-point water pollutants in Connecticut. 7. Compare and contrast the general structures, processes and limitations of a septic system to a secondary wastewater treatment plant. 8. Debate the effectiveness of a law designed to protect water resources. |
C10. Explain the role of septic and sewage systems on the quality of surface and ground water. C11. Explain how human activity may impact water resources in Connecticut, such as ponds, rivers and the Long Island Sound ecosystem. |
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Energy Transfer And Transformations – What
is the role of energy in our world? New Haven GRADE 6 Unit 4 DSM/NeoSci/FOSS Simple Machines Levers Kit , www.newhavenscience.org |
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7.1 — Energy provides the ability to do work and can exist in
many forms. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students
should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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7.1.a Work is the
process of making objects move through the application of force. 7.1.b Energy can be
stored in many forms and can be transformed into the energy of motion. |
GRADE-LEVEL CONCEPT 7.1.a. |
1. Conduct simple experiments that show and explain how forces work to change the motion of an object. 2. Calculate work done on an object as force or distance varies. 3. Explain in writing how the six simple machines make work easier but do not alter the amount of work done on an object and demonstrate how everyday objects function as simple machines
5. Defend the statement, ÒWork output of a machine is always less than work input because of energy lost due to friction.Ó 6. Design and create a working compound machine from several simple machines. 7. Use a diagram or model of a moving object (roller coaster, pendulum, etc.) to describe the conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy and vice versa. 8. Discuss different forms of energy and describe how they can be converted from one form to another for use by humans (e.g., thermal, electrical, light, chemical, mechanical). 9. Trace energy conversions that occur in the human body once food enters and explain the conversions in writing. 10. Calculate potential and kinetic energy and relate those quantities to total energy in a system. |
C12. Explain the relationship among, force, distance and work, and use the relationship (W = F x D) to calculate work done in lifting heavy objects. C13. Explain how simple machines, such as inclined planes, pulleys and levers, are used to create mechanical advantage. C14. Describe how different types of stored (potential) energy can be used to make objects move. |
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Properties of Matter- How does the structure of
matter affect the properties and uses of materials? New Haven GRADE 7: Prentice Hall Matter Text Unit 1, 2 Matter and Chemistry , www.newhavenscience.org |
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6.1 — Materials can be classified as pure substances or mixtures, depending on their chemical and physical properties. |
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Core Science Curriculum Framework |
Underlying Concepts Students should understand thatÉ |
Grade-Level Expectations Students should be able
toÉ |
CMT Expected Performances |
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6.1.a. Mixtures are
made of combinations of elements and/or compounds, and they can be separated
by using a variety of physical means. 6.1.b Pure substances can be either elements or compounds, and they cannot be broken down by physical means. |
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