The Framework

D75 Science Scope & Sequence

The scope and sequence is organized as a three-year cycle to ensure that all students have the opportunity to develop core scientific ideas. Four units of study are repeated each year, beginning with:

Science Learning Community
Physical Science
Earth & Space Science
Life Science

Each year, a new unit of resources is developed based on one of the assessed DLM Essential Elements (adapted standards for students in alternate assessment programs). These EE's were adapted from the Next Generation Science Standards. Our science team worked on the research and development of all resources using the content summary of the Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI) as it is explained in the Framework for K-12 Science Education.

Each unit is scheduled for 10-12 weeks of study, giving ample time to build content knowledge and practice the skills to meet the DLM Essential Elements.

Each year focuses on different standards and does not rely on any sequential order. Over the course of three years students will be exposed to all tested Essential Elements in their grade band, and therefore may enter the cycle at any point.

The Science Learning Community

This unit prepares students to work as a team of scientists. It provides lessons that develops their ideas of what science is about and how scientists work. Students will practice making observations, asking questions, planning and implementing investigations and recording data. It is an important start to the year so that routines, expectations and practices are established and maintained throughout the year.

Physical Science

This unit develops the disciplinary core ideas presented in the physical sciences. Each year the focus changes to a different component. The following are the three major core ideas that are covered in the three-year cycle: PS1 - Matter and It's Interactions, PS2 - Motion and Stability: Forces and Interactions, and PS3 - Energy.

Earth and Space Science

This unit develops the disciplinary core ideas presented in the Earth and Space Sciences. Each year the focus changes to a different component. The following are the three major core ideas that are covered in the three-year cycle: ESS1 - Earth's Place in the Universe, ESS2 - Earth's Systems, and ESS3 - Earth and Human Activity.

Life Science

This unit develops the disciplinary core ideas presented in the Life Sciences. Each year the focus changes to a different component. The following are the three major core ideas that are covered in the three-year cycle: LS1 - From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes, LS2 - Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics, and LS4 - Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity.

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