The Elementary Science program is a standards based curriculum using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The NGSS are rich in practice and content. Each standard covers three dimensions: disciplinary core ideas (four disciplines covered), scientific/engineering practices (scientific enquiry), and cross cutting concepts (application across all domains of science). The standards build on the progression of knowledge from grade level band to grade level band. The disciplinary core ideas covered at each grade level are:
• Physical Science • Life Science • Earth/Space Science • Engineering, Technology and Applications of Science
The units of study covered in grade 1 are:
• Waves and their applications in technologies for information transfer • From Molecules to Organisms (Plants and Animals) • Heredity: Inheritance and variation of traits • Earth’s place in the Universe (Sun, Moon and Stars) • Science Enquiry and Scientific process weaved in throughout the year
ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES:
Assessments are formative and summative. Types of assessments include: Formative: teacher observations, feedback, checklists, rubrics, questioning, learning conversations, self/peer assessments, quizzes, journals. Summatives: End of unit tests and inquiry-based projects.
INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS:
Whole and small group, paired learning, learning through hands on experiments, directed and independent inquiry based activities, interactive digital lessons, virtual labs, and field trips.