Science (K5)

K5 marks the beginning of children’s scientific discovery. They learn to observe the world in a scientific way.

For more information, see A Framework for Science Education.

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Skills needed to do science successfully

• Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering)
• Developing and using models
• Planning and carrying out investigations
• Analyzing and interpreting data
• Using mathematics and computational thinking
• Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)
• Engaging in argument from evidence
• Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Crosscutting Concepts 

Knowledge connecting the sciences

• Patterns
• Cause and effect: Mechanism and explanation
• Scale, proportion, and quantity
• Systems and system models
• Energy and matter: Flows, cycles, and conservation
• Structure and function
• Stability and change

Physical Science

Focuses on:

• Structure and Properties of Matter

Life Science

Focuses on:

• Organisms and Their Environments

Earth and Space Science

Focuses on:

• Weather

Engineering and Technology

Understanding how the human-built world affects your life   

• In grades K-5, the core ideas for Engineering, Technology, and the Application of Science are included in the Life Science, Earth & Space Science, and Physical Science standards