Science

Marina follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), what does this look like?

6th Grade:

In sixth grade, the focus of science with be on understanding systems and system models (a Crosscutting Concept) through the study of Earth’s systems and the systems of living organisms. Students will also explore how humans impact various systems.

• In the fall semester, students will focus on energy and how it is transferred and converted between the atmosphere and the hydrosphere. 
• In the spring semester, the focus shifts from looking at the human connection and impact on Earth’s systems to the systems within living organisms. 

7th Grade:

Energy flow and matter cycling is a strong theme in seventh grade. By making connections between the natural process of energy flow and matter cycling, students will be better prepared to make connections about how humans impact these processes in ecosystems. 

• In the fall semester of seventh grade, students will focus on how the Earth has physically changed over time due to the cycling of matter and flow of energy in various systems on Earth. 
• In the spring semester, This unit will inform Unit 3: Ecosystems where students will focus on how the living and nonliving aspects of the environment affect organisms and their ecosystems. 

8th Grade:

• Unit 1: Applications of Physics and Engineering, students will have an opportunity to be more metacognitive around engineering principles in the context of middle school physics.
• Unit 2: Understanding the Universe, students will revisit the larger context of the Earth in space and then focus on how life on Earth has changed over time.
• Unit 3: Earth’s Impact on Evolution, investigates how physical forces impact geologic changes, that have in turn influenced life on Earth.
• Unit 4: Earth’s Impact on Organisms, students will focus on natural selection and genetics to provide explanations for the changes of life on Earth over time and how the Earth has come to its current form.