FOREST/LINDEN AVENUE SCHOOL
SCIENCE CURRICULUM
Science covers the broad field of knowledge that deals with observed facts and the relationship among those facts. Houghton-Mifflin Science Discovery Works program uses the scientific method that includes predicting, observing, experimenting and concluding.
Pre-Kindergarten
Unit B: Exploring With the Senses
Using the senses to observe the physical characteristics of objects; grouping objects by their physical characteristics.
Theme: Systems
Kindergarten
Unit A: Characteristics of Living Things
Classification of objects as living or nonliving; basic needs and stages of growth of living things.
Themes: Systems, Constancy and Change
Unit C: Looking at the Earth and Sky
Landforms; daytime sky and the sun; changing seasons and the weather; the moon and the stars.
Themes: Constancy and Change, Scale
Unit D: Pushes and Pulls
Different ways things move; pushes and pulls; surfaces; directional motion.
Themes: Systems, Models
Unit E: Body Parts
Identification of internal and external body parts; the functions and importance of individual body parts, including the hands, bones, muscles, heart, stomach, and brain.
Themes: Systems, Models
Grade One
Unit A: Kinds of Living Things
The similarities and differences between plants and animals; classifying plants and animals accordingly to one characteristic; life cycles of plants and animals.
Theme: Systems
Unit C: Magnets
The properties of magnets; magnetic force; magnetic fields, temporary magnets; magnets and compasses.
Themes: Systems, Scale
Unit D: Earth’s Land and Water
Properties of soil and rocks; how water and soil mix; how water flows; recycling soil, water, and rocks.
Themes: Systems, Models
Unit E: Keeping Fit and Healthy
The importance of good nutrition, exercise, sleep, and proper hygiene; the good pyramid and a healthful diet.
Themes: Systems, Constancy and Change
Grade Two
Unit A: Interactions of Living Things
The needs of living things; plant and animal adaptations to various habitats; the effect of living things and natural forces on environments.
Themes: Constancy and Change, Models
Unit C: Changes Over Time
Characteristics of different dinosaurs; how trace fossils and fossil remains provide clues about the earth’s history; changes in the day and night sky; daily and seasonal weather patterns.
Themes: Models, Scale, Constancy and Change
Unit D: Solids, Liquids, and Gases
Properties of solids, liquids, and gases; the changing of materials from one state to another.
Theme: Constancy and Change
Unit E: What Makes Me Sick
How germs cause illness; how illnesses spread; prevention of illnesses and injuries; how to stay healthy.
Themes: Systems, Scale