Rutherford County Schools Science instruction follows the North Carolina Standard Course of Study (NCSCOS), which is designed to spark curiosity and build a strong foundation in scientific thinking. Students are encouraged to ask questions, investigate, and make sense of the world around them through hands-on exploration.

In grades K–5, students study life science, physical science, earth and environmental science, and scientific inquiry. Lessons begin with concrete, observable phenomena and progress toward more abstract understanding. Students are guided to think critically, explain their reasoning, and apply their learning to real-world problems. Through the NCSCOS standards, we are preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind they need to become thoughtful problem-solvers and lifelong learners in science.

Science Standards for Grades K-5

EARTH SCIENCE

Earth’s Place in the Universe

Recognize the features and patterns of the earth/moon/sun system as observed from Earth. (1)
Remember the major components and patterns observed in the earth/moon/sun system. (3)
Understand the causes of day and night and phases of the moon. (4)

Earth and Human Activity

Understand that natural resources are important to humans. (1)
Understand changes caused by human impact on the environment. (4)

Earth's Systems

Understand change and observable patterns of weather that occur from day to day and throughout the year. (K)
Understand the physical properties of Earth materials. (1)
Understand patterns of weather and factors that affect weather. (2)
Understand the structures of the Earth’s surface using models. (3)
Understand patterns of change in the Earth's surface over time. (4)
Understand how Earth systems (hydrosphere and atmosphere) impact patterns of weather and climate. (5)

LIFE SCIENCE

From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes

Understand the characteristics of living organisms and nonliving things. (K)
Understand animal life cycles. (2)
Understand human body systems and how they are essential for life: protection, movement, and support. (3)
Understand how plant structures aid in survival. (3)
Understand the effects of environmental changes, adaptations, and behaviors that enable organisms to survive in changing habitats. (4)
Understand how structures and systems of the human body perform functions necessary for life. (5)

Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity

Understand the use of fossils as evidence of the history of Earth and its changing life forms. (4)

Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits

Understand characteristics of organisms that make them alike and different. (K)
Understand that organisms differ from or are similar to their parents and other offspring based on characteristics of the organism. (2)
Understand some characteristics of an organism are inherited and other characteristics are acquired. (5)

Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy and Dynamics

Understand the basic needs of a variety of plants and animals in different ecosystems. (1)
Understand how environmental factors aid in the survival of plants. (3)
Understand the interdependence of plants and animals within their ecosystem. (5)

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

Matter and Its Interactions

Understand how objects are described based on their physical properties and how they are used. (K)
Understand properties of solids and liquids and the changes they undergo. (2)
Understand the structure and properties of matter before and after they undergo a change. (3)
Understand the interactions of matter and energy and the changes that occur. (5)

Energy

Understand how energy can be transferred from one object to another. (3)
Understand that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents. (4)

Motion & Stability: Forces and Motion

Understand the positions and motions of objects and organisms observed in the environment. (K)
Understand how forces (pushes or pulls) affect the motion of an object. (1)
Understand motion and factors that affect motion. (3)
Understand how various forces affect the motion of an object. (4)
Understand force, motion, and the relationship between them. (5)

Waves and Their Applications

Understand the relationship between sound and vibrating objects. (2)
Understand the nature of light and how light interacts with objects. (4)

NCSCOS Quick Reference Guides

Kindergarten

1st Grade

2nd Grade

3rd Grade

4th Grade

5th Grade

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Parent Guides

RCS Curriculum Partners

Benchmark Advance

Rutherford County Schools use the North Carolina Science Standards (NCSCOS) as the foundation for science instruction. To support student learning, we incorporate Benchmark Advance curriculum resources along with additional hands-on materials, digital tools, and inquiry-based activities. This blended approach helps students build a strong understanding of scientific concepts, practice problem-solving, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. By combining Benchmark Advance with other high-quality resources, we ensure students are engaged in meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for success in science and beyond.

RCSNC Elementary Common Websites & Applications

Additional Resources Used for Classroom Instruction

Rutherford County Schools provides students with access to a variety of approved online tools and educational websites that support learning anytime and anywhere. These resources offer interactive activities and materials aligned to the curriculum. Some tools require student accounts, which may involve limited sharing of basic information such as name, date of birth, or email. Parental consent is required for students to create and use these accounts, ensuring compliance with state and federal privacy regulations.

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