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Science Philosophy
The Howard County Elssential Science
Curriculum reflects the intellectual rigor of scientific inquiry
as well as the attitudes and social values conducive to
preparing a scientific literate populace for the 21st Century.
Effective student-centered science embodies an approach to
learning that engages students physically and mentally in an
inquiry-based laboratory program. The concepts of Space/Earth
Science, Physical Science, and Life/Environmental Science are
presented at each grade level in a developmentally appropriate
format.
- Kindergarten students
explore the weather, the properties of water, and the
characteristics of living things.
- First grade students learn
about the features of our galaxy; study the characteristics
of rocks and fossils; describe and classify matter based on
physical properties; and learn that living things have basic
needs.
- Second grade students
explore the properties of the Moon, study the causes and
effects of soil erosion, explore simple interactions of
matter; describe and compare characteristics of sinking and
floating objects; and study the basic needs and life cycle
of butterflies.
- Third grade students explore
the night and day cycle; describe and compare weather
elements and patterns; investigate the properties of heat,
light, and sound; experiment with pendulums and magnets to
learn how to recognize a well-designed investigation;
describe and compare seeds, parts of plants, and the needs
of growing plants.
- Fourth grade students
describe the planets in our solar system; learn about the
constructive and destructive forces that affect the shape of
Earth; explore properties of electrical systems and
electromagnets; and investigate the interdependence of
living things.
- Fifth grade students
describe the properties of stars; explore the properties of
water and the movements and features of oceans; classify
matter and explain that matter can change states and
experience physical and chemical changes; describe forces
that cause specific changes in motion; explain that simple
machines reduce the effort required to do work; and
recognize how human use of natural resources impacts the
environment.
By capturing students' perceptions
of the world around them, the program provides opportunities to
expand, change, enhance, and modify the ways in which they view
the world. Teachers promote and value students' thinking,
honesty, curiosity, and questioning. Students are empowered with
personal skills that they use to express and share
points-of-view, solve problems, and make decisions based on
evidence. Ongoing investigations engage students in manipulating
materials and making observations, seeking answers to questions,
and explaining ideas based on evidence. Throughout each
investigation, students are encouraged to reflect upon what they
have done, the problems they have encountered, and how to apply
their scientific knowledge to make decisions, devise a plan, or
solve a practical problem.
Contact:
Kay Learmouth, Instructional Facilitator |
