Science

Objectives and Goals

For each of the 5 topics, students focus on background information to introduce the topic and complete trial experiments.   Students follow the scientific method to clearly state a purpose, determining which question to answer as they proceed.  They draw a schematic diagram of the equipment used throughout the process. They document a procedure giving step by step instructions on how to complete the experiment.   Measurements are recorded throughout the experiment and results carefully documented.  Data is analyzed and graphed.  Lastly, a conclusion is written to clearly communicate the answer to the question first posed in the purpose.

Textbook

STEP Book

Strategies

There are many strategies to enable students to comprehend the science topics being covered. Topics are introduced by brain storming students’ current understandings before they begin experimentation.   Reading related books, watching videos, class discussions and using various supplemental materials guides the students to a better understanding of the topic.  A demonstration and explanation of the science equipment being used allows students to become familiar with the equipment.  Also, students perform various trials of the experiments, before deciding on which question they will choose for further investigation.

Assessments

Students’ understanding is assessed in various ways.  They are evaluated through written assessments, observations, and STEP book completion. Observations include individual students as well as student partners and/or teams.  Students also keep a journal recording their impressions and insights about each experiment.