Curriculum Overview

Students will study, practice, and discuss what it means to think, talk, and act like scientists by exploring the world of science through various hands-on experiments, research, technology, and discovery.  They will work independently as well as in various groups to increase their usage of the scientific method.

The Earth, Life, and Physical Science Prentice Hall textbooks will serve as great tools to reinforce basic concepts and skills necessary to understand units covered throughout the year.  They will use science process skills such as observation, prediction with explanation, experimentation, measurement, inference, and conclusions when completing lab work.

The following outline provides the main units that will be covered throughout the year:

Prentice Hall Earth Science

• Moving Plates

• Earthquakes

• Rock Cycles

Prentice Hall Life Science

• Living Organisms

• Cell Process and Energy

• Human Body

  • Bones, Muscles, and Skin
  • Food and Digestion

• Sponges, Cnidarians, and Worms

• Populations and Communities

Prentice Hall Physical Science

• Introduction to matter

• Solids, Liquids, and Gases

• Thermal Energy and Heat

• Magnetism

A variety of assessments will be utilized to encourage students to develop their talents and aim for high grades.  The specific factors for grading will consist of the following:

1. Homework

2. Projects

3. In-Class Assignments

4. Quizzes and Tests

The science program will promote a positive learning environment that will encourage students to become inquisitive and investigative scientists throughout the year.