About Grades 6–8 Science

In science, we stress the use of activities and skills that focus on the active search for knowledge or understanding to satisfy a curiosity. Structure and facilitated discussions based on shared understanding of rules of scientific discourses must be the rule to enhance our science disciplinary literacy (e.g., justifying understandings, basing arguments on data, critically assessing the explanation of peers). Both aspects of understanding—explaining and representing—are required to meet standards and prepare our students for the technological world they will enter. Science should include activities focused on the following main ideas.

• Scientific Thinking
• Scientific Tools and Technologies
• Scientific Communication
• Scientific Investigation

In DPS, science is a required subject for all middle school students. The content for sixth grade is earth science. Seventh grade students learn about biology. Eighth graders take physical science, including physics and chemistry.

The redesigned middle school science program was field tested in ten middle schools and all K–8 schools during the 2005–2006 school year and was implemented in all middle schools beginning in 2006–2007. The new curriculum:

• Focuses on principles or big ideas in earth, life, and physical sciences;
• Incorporates a research-based, constructivist approach to learning;
• Includes embedded formative assessments;
• Teaches science as inquiry;
• Aligns with Colorado science standards and CSAP science assessment frameworks; and
• Includes materials for hands-on learning.

All DPS middle school science programs were developed and nationally field tested with support from the National Science Foundation.