Science

🧪 Grade 5 – Units of Study
Each instructional block focuses on a major science topic and typically lasts 3–4 weeks.

Block 1: Matter ⚛️
Block 2: Ecosystems 🌿
Block 3: Water Cycle 💧
Block 4: Solar System 🪐
Block 5: Human Impact on the Environment 🌎
Block 6: Review & Integration 📚

• 🧬 Life Science

• ⚙️ Physical Science

• 🌍 Earth & Space Science

• 🛠️ Technology & Engineering

• 🧊 States of Matter
  
  

🔬 Grade 6 – Units of Study
Block 1: Microscope & Cells 🔬
Block 2: Human Body Systems 🫁
Block 3: Fossils & Evolution 🦖
Block 4: Chemistry 🧪
Block 5: Waves, Light & Electromagnetic Spectrum 💡
Block 6: Moon Phases, Eclipses & Gravity 🌔

Our curriculum is aligned with the MA Science Frameworks, which can be found at: https://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/scitech/2016-04.pdf

CER Writing: Claim, Evidence, Reasoning

In Grades 5 and 6, students use the CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) writing framework to develop scientific explanations, strengthen critical thinking, and support their ideas with evidence.

Students follow a consistent writing template across science units to organize their responses:

• Claim: Answer the scientific question with a clear statement.

• Evidence: Support the claim using observations, data, investigations, or information from scientific texts.

• Reasoning: Explain how the evidence supports the claim using scientific concepts and vocabulary.

This structured approach helps students build confidence in scientific writing, engage in evidence-based discussions, and develop skills aligned with the Massachusetts Science and Technology/Engineering Standards and MCAS expectations.