Curriculum

Science Curriculum

Elementary

The 2010 science department curriculum review identified some changes that will be phased in to the NASD elementary science program through the 2014–15 school year. The goals for all elementary students are not just to teach science content, but to develop scientific literacy that will stay with them throughout their education at NA and beyond. In particular, elementary students will be given the opportunity to be exposed to the following skill sets:

A) An emphasis on developing science process skills
B) Activities that emphasize inquiry-based learning
C) Developing skills of prediction and application
D) Cultivating learning through the students' own natural curiosity
E) Learning discipline-specific content as outlined below, by grade level

Grade Level Focus

Kindergarten

The senses
Classification

First Grade

Weather
The seasons

Second Grade

Living things
Energy and motion

Third Grade

Life cycles
Sun, moon, earth system
Energy and force
Pest control

Fourth Grade

Geology
Magnetism and electricity
Classification of living things

Fifth Grade

Populations and ecosystems
Earth science
Sound and light

Middle School

Grade 6 Science | General Science

Students begin the course with a review of how scientists solve problems using the scientific method. Then they study how scientists use the SI system to measure length, volume, mass, temperature, and time. In a chemistry unit, students are introduced to atoms, elements, and the periodic table. They study the states of matter ,physical and chemical properties, and how they change. In a physics unit, students are introduced to motion, momentum, and acceleration. They will study Newton’s laws of motion, energy, and how energy transforms. In the final unit of Agriculture, students will study natural resources, agriculture specific to PA and integrated pest management.

Grade 7 Science | Life Science: The Study of Living Things

Life science introduces the students to selected topics in biology. Students begin with the characteristics and classification of living things. A unit on cells consists of cell structures and functions. Students learn the basics of heredity in the genetics Unit. The six kingdoms of living things are compared and contrasted. A human body unit investigates three vital body systems. A unit one cology emphasizes the relationships of living things with their environment.

Grade 8 Science | Earth and Space Science

This program offers students an opportunity to explore the disciplines of Astronomy, Geology, and Meteorology. The course is based on the concept that students “learn by doing.” Life on Earth is tied by amazing interrelationships to the oceans, minerals and rocks, the process of weathering and erosion, and the supply of natural resources. It is important for students to relate this information to current concern for ecology and energy conservation. The student applies graphing with its interpretations, map reading, and math manipulations to the discovery of patterns that describe these relationships. The practical applications of information learned are reinforced throughout the entire course of study so that students can better cope with their changing world.