Science Curriculum Framework

The following information was pulled directly from the PDE SAS website. 

Curriculum Frameworks include Big Ideas, Concepts, Competencies, and Essential Questions aligned to Standards and Assessment Anchors and, where appropriate, Eligible Content.

Curriculum Framework Definitions

Big Ideas

Declarative statements that describe concepts that transcend grade levels. Big Ideas are essential to provide focus on specific content for all students.

Concepts

Describe what students should know (key knowledge) as a result of this instruction specific to grade level.

Competencies

Describe what students should be able to do (key skills) as a result of this instruction, specific to grade level.

Essential Questions

Questions connected to the SAS framework and are specifically linked to the Big Ideas. They should frame student inquiry, promote critical thinking, and assist in learning transfer.

K-12 Unifying Themes

• K-12 Unifying Themes (Crosscutting Concepts)

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K-12 Inquiry and Design

• K-12 Inquiry and Design (Science Practices)

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Grade Level Curriculum Framework

• K-5 Scope and Sequence

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Kindergarten

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Grade 1

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Grade 2

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Grade 3

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Grade 4

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Grade 5

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• Middle School Scope and Sequence

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Middle School - Earth and Space Science

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Middle School - Life Science

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework Middle School - Physical Science

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework High School - Earth and Space Science

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework High School - Life Science

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• PA Core Science Curriculum Framework High School - Physical Science

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K-12 Framework by Discipline

• Earth and Space Science Framework K-12

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• Life Science Framework K-12

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• Physical Science Framework K-12

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Long Term Transfer Goals, Big Ideas, and Essential Questions

• Earth and Space Science

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• Inquiry and Design

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• Life Science

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• Physical Science

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• Unifying Themes