SCIENCE CURRICULUM

Grade 3

-Constructing New Scientific Knowledge-

The learner will be able to:
  • generate reasonable questions about the world based on observation
  • develop solutions to unfamiliar problems through reasoning, observation, and/or experiment
  • manipulate simple mechanical devices and explain how they work
  • use simple measurement devices to make metric measurement
  • develop strategies and skills for information gathering and problem solving
  • construct charts and graphs and prepare summaries of observations


-Reflecting on Scientific Knowledge-

The learner will be able to:

  • develop an awareness of the need for making decisions scientifically
  • show how science concepts can be interpreted through creative expression such as language arts and fine arts
  • describe ways in which technology is used in everyday life
  • develop an awareness of and sensitivity to the natural world
  • develop an awareness of contributions made to science by people of diverse backgrounds
 

-Organization of Living Things (Animals) 

The learner will be able to:

  • compare and classify familiar organisms on the basis of observable physical characteristics
  • describe life cycles of familiar organisms
  • compare and contrast food, energy, and environmental needs of selected organisms
  • describe functions of selected seed plant parts
 

-Ecosystems-

The learner will be able to:

  • identify familiar organisms as part of a food chain or food web and describe their feeding relationships within the web
  • explain common patterns of interdependence and interrelationships of living things
  • describe the basic requirements for all living things to maintain their existence
  • design systems that encourage growing of particular plants or animals
  • describe positive and negative effects of humans on the environment

-Motion of Objects-

The learner will be able to:

  • describe or compare motions of common objects in terms of speed and direction
  • describe how forces (pushes or pulls) are needed to speed up, slow down, stop, or change the direction of a moving object
  • use simple machines to make work easier

 


-Hydrosphere-

The learner will be able to:

  • describe how water exists on earth in three states
  • trace the path that rainwater follows after it falls
  • identify sources of drinking water
  • describe uses of water
 

-Atmosphere and Weather-

The learner will be able to:

  • describe the atmosphere
  • describe weather conditions and climates
  • describe seasonal changes in weather
  • explain appropriate safety precautions during severe weather