Science Syllabus
Mrs. Kipling
847-7905 ext. 3027
bkipling@springlakeschools.org
Course Description
Science is a way of making sense of the natural world. The sixth grade science educational curriculum program provides direction for an innovative approach to science and is the basis for discussion of real world problems. Our science curriculum includes three sub-divisions of Life Science, Earth Science and Physical Science.
Unit 1: Scientific Method
- Overview and review of the Scientific Method
Life Science
Unit 2: Animal Systems
- Skeletal System
- Muscular System
- Digestive System
- Respiratory System
- Circulatory System
- Nervous System
Objective
- Animal body systems work together in order for activities to be performed.
Earth Science
Unit 3: Composition, Properties, and Changes of the Earth
Objectives
- Describe formation of rock types (igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary) and differences between the types – using the rock cycle model.
- Describe how physical and chemical weathering lead to erosion and the formation of soils and sediments.
- Explain how waves, wind, water, and glacier movement shape and reshape the land surface of the Earth by eroding rock in some areas and depositing sediments in other areas.
- Explain that soil is a mixture, made up of weather-eroded rock and decomposed organic material.
- Describe how soil samples can be characterized based on particle size and texture.
- Describe the Earth as a magnet and tell how the magnetic properties of the Earth are similar/different to natural or man-made magnets.
- Explain how a compass works using the magnetic field of the Earth, and how a compass is used for navigation on land and sea.
Unit 4: Plate Tectonics and Fossils
Objectives
- Use models to explain major geological events, plate tectonics, and layers of the Earth.
- Make observations of rock layers and fossils and compare them to modern life forms to demonstrate environmental change over time.
Physical Science
Unit 5: Matter & Energy
Objectives
- Distinguish between kinetic and potential energies as found in everyday situations.
- Show how potential energy can become kinetic energy.
- Show how kinetic energy can become potential energy.
- Explain how heat energy is transferred from place to place by radiation, conduction, or convection.
- Describe changes in states of matter in terms of motion and arrangements of atoms and molecules.
Grades are based on:
Tests/Quizzes 40%
Projects/Labs 35%
Homework 25%
