Science
Elementary Science: Grades K–5
Merrick Science Curriculum Map 2023-2024
The National Geographic Exploring Science curriculum was developed specifically for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This program ensures student science success for the 21st century by providing instruction in Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Crosscutting Concepts.
The National Geographic Exploring Science curriculum includes:
- In-depth focus to meet the rigor of NGSS for grades K-5
- Introduces real-world science research with National Geographic Explorers, scientists, and photographers
- Connects concise content with hands-on investigations, engineering practices, and case studies
Each grade level studies topics in Earth Science, Physical Science and Life Science:
Kindergarten: Weather and Climate; Pushes and Pulls; Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
First Grade: Space Systems: Patterns and Cycles; Waves: Light and Sound; Structure, Function and Information Processing: Plants and Animals
Second Grade: Structure and Properties of Matter; Earth’s Systems: Processes That Shape The Earth; Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
Third Grade: Forces and Interactions; Weather and Climate; Ecosystems, Life Cycles and Traits
Fourth Grade: Earth’s Systems: Processes That Shape The Earth; Energy/Waves; Structure, Function and Information Processing: Internal/External Features
Fifth Grade: Structure and Properties of Matter; Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems; Earth Systems and Space Systems
Overview of NGSS topics: https://www.nextgenscience.org/overview-topics
6th grade
Our sixth grade students will be studying topics that will prepare them for the rigors of the middle school.
Unit 1: Structure, Function and Information Processing
Unit 2: Growth, Development and Reproduction of Organisms
Unit 3: Structure and Properties of Matter
Unit 4: Forces and Interactions
STEAM DISCOVERY LABS
Each building in the Merrick School District has a newly redesigned and renovated STEAM Discovery Lab to enhance student learning experiences. The layout of each room makes this innovative learning environment exciting, engaging and functional! Each STEAM Discovery Lab has new tables conducive to small group collaboration, 6 zSpace 3D virtual reality computers, 3D printers and a SmartBoard; as well as a variety of science equipment and Makerspace materials. The STEAM Discovery Lab is used by all grade levels for planned lessons and impromptu discovery!