following strands: Science Concepts, Science Processes, Written and Oral Communication. Students will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery of each strand in a variety of ways.

1        Science Concepts – this is the “meat and potatoes” of the curriculum. To prove mastery of concepts, a student must demonstrate his/her knowledge of key concepts and facts related to the topic under investigation. Seventh grade students will study 2 major content areas: Properties of Matter and Catastrophic Events

2      Evidence of Mastery – students demonstrate concept mastery through:

o Lab Reports (Purpose and Conclusion)

o Quizzes

o Tests

o Classwork and Homework

o Extended Projects

3     Science Processes – these are the ways in which students work to solve scientific problems. These include the ability to design a scientific investigation, follow directions accurately, follow established safety rules, as well as to use equipment, measurement scales and other tools correctly. Scientific processes also focus on the ability for students to collect, organize and analyze data correctly and effectively, using the data to support their conclusion

4     Evidence of Mastery – students demonstrate process mastery through:

o Lab Reports (Procedure, Data Collection and Analysis, Conclusion)

o Representation of Data (Charts, Graphs, Tables)

o Participation in Lab (Creating a Procedure, Following Directions, Following Safety Rules, Using Equipment Precisely)

o Analysis of Data

o Extended Projects

o Models

5     Written and Oral Communication – focuses on students’ ability to communicate in many forms, including written word and speech. Students should demonstrate an ability to express scientific information purposefully and clearly.

6     Evidence of Mastery – students demonstrate communication mastery through:

o Written Lab Reports

o Informal and Formal Presentations

o Participation in class discussions

o Lab Journal Writing Prompts

o Quizzes and Tests

o Homework

Self-Directed Learner – In order to meet expectations, students must demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for their own learning. Students should:

1       Work independently, asking for help when needed

2     Set goals and plans how to meet them

3     Invest time and effort in their work

4     Produce work that is neat and organized

5     Complete work on time

Teamwork & Collaboration – In order to be successful within and outside the classroom, students need to be able to work with others. To meet expectations in this area, students must demonstrate the ability to:

1       Work well in diverse groups

2     Participate in a variety of settings

3     Establish positive relationships with adults and peers

4     Work to achieve group goals

5     Teach and encourage others