Science/Health

Science has taken a place beside language development and Math as one of the necessary foundations of elementary education. All young people need an understanding of basic science concepts and scientific methods in order to wisely assess the scientific influences that will shape their lives. Perhaps more important, however, is the applicability of science skills to a wide variety of nonscientific endeavors. A student who has a solid foundation in the concepts and process skills used in scientific inquiry is better able to solve problems encountered in other areas of study and in his everyday world.

Students are assisted in acquiring science concepts and skills by means of an inductive, hands-on approach that focuses on the processes and techniques of discovery. Science classes direct and expand students' curiosity by providing opportunities for investigation. The Science program imparts basic scientific knowledge while developing students' process skills and increasing their appreciation for the natural world and technology.

Science and Health kits/units are designed to provide students the opportunity to explore a self-contained topic.

Science Kits/Units Include:

• Kindergarten: seeds to plants, ecology/save the earth, water explorations
• First grade: five senses, rocks to soil, color and light
• Second grade: sink or float, life cycles, water cycle
• Third grade: people and animals, looking at liquids, amazing air
• Fourth grade: rocks and minerals, mystery powders, environmental factors
• Fifth grade: weather, small things, electricity/magnets

Health Kits/Units Include:

• Kindergarten: getting to know myself
• First grade: the "inside story"
• Second grade: nutrition
• Third grade: bones and muscles
• Fourth grade: circulatory and respiratory systems
• Fifth grade: digestive system

All grades will visit the Waubonsie Valley High School planetarium during the school year, except Fourth Grade who will enjoy a computer enhanced program entitled "Earthdome".   The planetarium units of study include:

• Kindergarten: introduction to the planetarium
• First grade: introduction to the solar system
• Second grade: starlight, sun light
• Third grade: moon and its phases
• Fourth grade: solar system; Earthdome
• Fifth grade: stars and constellations

• District 204 Science Curriculum SubWeb