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 is designed to promote inquiry-based science and is divided into three divisions: Life Science, Earth Science and Physical Science.
Unit 1: Scientific Method
- Overview and review of the Scientific Method
Earth Science
Unit 2: The Planet Rock
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 3: Earth: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
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 4: Energetic Connections
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.
Life Science
Unit 5: Energy in an Ecosystem
Objectives
- Students identify the biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems.
- Students identify the biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems.
- Students define and identify producers, consumers and decomposers in ecosystems that could be found in Michigan.
- Students describe the characteristics of populations and communities within Michigan ecosystems.
- Students identify characteristics of parasitic relationships.
- Students understand how human activities change environmental conditions and positively and negatively impact ecosystems.
Grades are based on:
Tests/Quizzes 60%
Projects/Labs 30%
Homework 10%
