Embedded Files
Overview
The goal of the K-6 science program is to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of science concepts in young students through an inquiry-based and hands-on learning approach. By integrating the core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science and engineering practices outlined in the NGSS, the program aims to develop students’ skills of asking questions, sense-making, and working with evidence. It encourages students to explore natural phenomena while engaging in collaborative investigations and engineering projects. The program also strives to make science relevant and accessible to all students, preparing them to be informed citizens capable of making thoughtful decisions about the world around them.
Units of Study
Bears
Did you know that the black bear population in Connecticut is rising by 10% per year? This increase has led to more bear sightings in Farmington, raising important questions about why this is happening and what we should do when we encounter bears in our yards or in the woods.
This unit focuses on the fascinating topic of black bears and ecosystems. It will provide our fifth graders with an in-depth understanding of the local bear population and the broader concepts of ecosystems and interdependence.
Throughout this unit, students will analyze data, develop models, and work with claims and evidence to learn about bears. They will study the cycles of matter, the flow of energy, and interdependence within ecosystems.
In addition, students will take a full day field trip to Winding Trails where they will engage in active, hands-on experiences to learn more about ecosystems and interdependence, including stations about photosynthesis, food webs, cycles of matter, and energy.
To enhance their learning, students will hear from several local experts, including the Farmington Animal Control Officer, a DEEP educator, and local environmentalists. These experts will teach our students about how people study and manage bears in our community and how we can safely coexist with them. Through these interactions, students will gain various perspectives and develop their own opinions on how to best address the issue of bears in our area.
To culminate their study, students will work to educate the community about how to safely coexist with black bears.
Energy, Waves, & Staying Healthy
This unit will provide our students with valuable insights into how energy and waves play a crucial role in our world and impact our health and safety.
Our journey begins with an exploration of forces, collisions, and concussions. As engineers, students will design, build, and test models of helmets considering the criteria and the constraints of the project. To gather information for their projects, they will design and conduct scientific investigations using the materials available.
Next, students will delve into the fascinating world of waves, studying their properties and how they affect our daily lives. They will learn about light waves and discover ways to protect their eyes, as well as sound waves and the importance of safeguarding our ears. Students will also learn about the Sun's effects on our skin and how to protect ourselves from its harmful rays.
Throughout the unit, fifth graders will develop essential skills such as analyzing data, constructing models, and forming evidence-based claims.
Earth's Spheres
Fifth graders will study how the Earth's spheres (the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere) are interconnected by gathering information, using models, and engaging in hands-on investigations. They will also analyze data and work with claims and evidence to understand the effects of human activities on these spheres.
More specifically, fifth graders will study the effects of burning fossil fuels on the Earth. In collaboration with the Farmington Green Efforts Commission, fifth graders will study the effects of idling on our atmosphere, our health, and our wallets. They will analyze data and virtually meet Ms. Caitlin Stern, an environmental analyst in the Bureau of Air Management at the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Students will also learn about how farming and our food choices impact the Earth.
In order to take action, students will educate drivers in our community about the negative effects of idling and encourage them to reduce their idling when possible. Students will also learn about other positive actions humans can take to mitigate their impact and set some goals for themselves.
Ways to Support Your Child in Science
Here are some ways families can engage in and extend learning at home during the Bears Unit.
Look online together at CT DEEP’s State of the Bears report. What do the graphs tell us about the bear situation?
Continue on CT DEEP’s website by reading The Basics of Living with Black Bears. Discuss as a family if you could make any adjustments in order to coexist with bears.
Go to Explore.org to observe live cams of animals (especially bears) around the world in their ecosystems.
Explore related topics on Generation Genius (videos, text, questions/answers, DIY projects). Codes: westwoods; wildcats.
Check out current events about ecosystems and animals on Newsela (adjustable text levels). (westwoods; wildcats).
Go to our library’s database to check out related topics on “True Flix” or “Scienceflix.”
Visit Nature Reserves or Wildlife Centers: Plan a family trip to a local nature reserve or wildlife center to learn more about bears and other animals.
Read Books and Watch Documentaries: Explore books and documentaries about bears, ecosystems, food webs, and wildlife conservation.
Learn about nature and wildlife preservation organizations in Connecticut such as Farmington Land Trust, Connecticut Audubon Society, or The Nature Conservancy.
Here are some ways families can engage in and extend learning at home during the Energy and Waves unit.
Discuss Safety Practices: Talk with your child about the importance of wearing helmets, protecting their eyes and ears, and using sunscreen. Share personal experiences and discuss why these safety measures are essential.
Explore related topics on Generation Genius (videos, text, questions/answers, DIY projects). Codes: westwoods; wildcats.
Try out an engineering challenge from Science Buddies (check out the engineering challenges from past years).
Visit Science Museums or Centers: Plan a visit to a local science museum or center where your child can engage with interactive exhibits related to energy, waves, and safety.
Here are some ways families can engage in and extend learning at home during the Earth's Spheres Unit.
Discuss Environmental Impact: Talk with your child about how everyday actions can positively impact the environment.
Go to “True Flix” on our library website and check out the videos and text: Alternative Energy, Earth Science, Farm to Table
Visit Local Environmental Programs: Attend local environmental programs or visit nature centers to learn more about conservation efforts and how to protect our natural resources.
Explore related topics on Generation Genius (videos, text, questions/answers, DIY projects). Codes: westwoods; wildcats.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Encourage your child to think creatively about reducing waste by reusing items and recycling. Discuss ways to minimize waste production in your household.
Page updated
Report abuse