The scientific method is the bedrock of science and refers to the activities of students in which they develop knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, as well as an understanding of how the natural world works. Students ask and answer questions that facilitate growth in their understanding of the natural world. The scientific method includes the idea that an investigation refers to a variety of methods that can be used to answer a scientifically oriented question, including; observations, field studies, models and simulations, open-ended explorations, and controlled experiments.
In elementary school the students learned to plan investigations to match a given research question. In 6th grade, the students learn to revise questions so they can be answered scientifically and then design an appropriate investigation to answer the question and carry out the study. Students learn to think critically and logically to make connections between prior science knowledge and evidence produced from their investigations. The students will work in collaborative groups and communicate the procedures and results of their investigations, and they will critique their own findings as well as the findings of others.
Throughout the school year, students will learn how to use systems thinking to simplify and analyze complex situations. Systems concepts that students learn to apply at this level include choosing system boundaries, determining if a system is open or closed, and applying systems thinking to a complex societal issue that involves science and technology.
In elementary school the students learned to plan investigations to match a given research question. In 6th grade, the students learn to revise questions so they can be answered scientifically and then design an appropriate investigation to answer the question and carry out the study. Students learn to think critically and logically to make connections between prior science knowledge and evidence produced from their investigations. The students will work in collaborative groups and communicate the procedures and results of their investigations, and they will critique their own findings as well as the findings of others.
Throughout the school year, students will learn how to use systems thinking to simplify and analyze complex situations. Systems concepts that students learn to apply at this level include choosing system boundaries, determining if a system is open or closed, and applying systems thinking to a complex societal issue that involves science and technology.