This physical science course involves students in the exploration of chemistry and physics concepts. They utilize science and engineering practices to conduct small group and individual research projects related to real world problems. Major topics of study include matter, energy, and earth systems. A variety of instructional approaches are used to help students develop an understanding of the role of science in their lives. This course is recommended for highly motivated students with strong mathematics, reading, and writing skills.
Successful completion of fifth-grade science and a teacher recommendation.
Essential Questions:
- How can one explain the nature and structure of matter and the characteristics of energy?
- How is energy transformed and used on both a macroscopic and microscopic scale?
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Quarter 1 |
Quarter 2 |
Quarter 3 |
Quarter 4 |
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Beyond Our Blue Planet (Unit 1) |
Transforming Matter: Physical & Chemical Changes (Units 2-3) |
Powering Through: Exploring the Dynamic World of Motion, Forces, and Energy (Units 4-5) |
Electrifying Discoveries: Unveiling the Power of Electricity and Electromagnetism (Unit 6) |
Riding the Waves: Exploring the Fascinating World of Wave Phenomena (Unit 7) |
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Focus of the Story |
What is the solar system, and what are the predictable patterns caused by Earth’s movement in the solar system? We begin by revisiting and extending our understanding of components of the solar system from Grade 4 including gravitational interactions, technological advances and new discoveries. |
How can one explain the structure, properties and interactions of matter? We are then introduced to subatomic particles and the periodic table. We learn how substances combine or react to make new substances, and perform physical and chemical changes. |
How can one explain and predict interactions between objects and within systems of objects? Next, our study of matter and energy continues through observing and describing an object's motion or change in motion. This leads to a study of forces and Newton’s Laws of Motion. We also examine how energy is transferred between objects or systems. |
As we continue we learn that materials have different conductive properties. We will also learn about basic principles of electricity and magnetism. In this part of the course we will build circuits and electromagnets. Our journey concludes by studying characteristic properties and behaviors of waves. We will examine characteristics and applications of electromagnetic radiation. |
How are waves used to transfer energy and information? Our journey into the intersection of matter and energy concludes by studying characteristic properties and behaviors of waves. We take time to examine various types of waves and their everyday applications. |
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Transfer Goals |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) |
Plan and carry out investigations or use a design process to answer a question or solve a problem. (Problem Solvers and Value Creators) |
Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) |
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Learning Targets |
I can name the components of the solar system and describe their characteristics I can assess the role of technology in refining our understanding of the solar system and with making new discoveries. |
I can distinguish between physical and chemical properties of matter. I can make an evidence-based conclusion to determine if a physical or chemical change has occurred. |
I can plan and conduct an investigation to explain how net force changes an object’s motion. I can plan and conduct experimental and/or observational investigations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred and transformed between its different forms. |
I can identify materials that are electrical conductors and insulators. I can construct series and parallel circuits. I can conduct an investigation to determine the factors that affect the strength of electric and magnetic forces. I can describe wave characteristics and explain how waves interact. I can describe practical uses of electromagnetic radiation in everyday life. |
I can describe wave characteristics and explain how waves interact. I can describe practical uses of electromagnetic radiation in everyday life. |