We will be using the new resource, HMH Science Dimensions, to investigate science topics by: creating driving question boards (engage), performing hands-on activities (explore), using technology and writing workbooks to enhance understanding (elaborate), and writing CERs (evaluate). We will start with Chemistry, move into Cells and Heredity, and then end the year with the Diversity of Living Things.
1st & Part of 2nd Trimester: Chemistry Unit 1: Structure of Matter- Performance Expectation: MS-PS1-1 Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
Unit 2: Structure of Matter- Performance Expectation: MS-PS1-4 Develop a model that predicts and describes changes in particle motion, temperature, and state of a pure substance when thermal energy is added or removed.
Part of 2nd & 3rd Trimester: Cells and Heredity Unit 1: Cells- Performance Expectations: MS-LS1-1 Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells. MS-LS1-2 Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.