Elementary Science Updates

The following activities may be used to support or supplement the rollout of the DPS Elementary Science Program.

Doing Science Activity Packet—Download the lesson plans and copy masters for this introductory activity.
Doing Science Activity Packet (Spanish)
Student Led Investigation—Science Fair Packet—Download the student support pages to lead students through a student-selected investigation.

Elementary Science

Redesigned Elementary School Science Program

The redesigned elementary science program is being field tested in 24 schools during the 2005–2006 and 2006–2007 school years and is scheduled to be implemented in all elementary schools during the 2007–2008 school year. The new curriculum:

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

Curriculum Matrix

To view this matrix in PDF format, click here.

Grade Level	Physical Science	Earth and Space Science	Life Science
Kindergarten	Investigating My Senses	Investigating Here, There, and Everywhere	Investigating Myself and My Family
Grade 1	Investigating Properties	Investigating Weather	Investigating Animals and Their Needs
Grade 2	Designing Sound Systems	Investigating Earth Materials	Investigating Plants
Grade 3	Investigating Electrical Systems	Investigating Objects in the Sky	Investigating Life Cycles
Grade 4	Investigating Physical and Chemical Properties	Investigating the Changing Earth	Investigating Ecosystems
Grade 5	Investigating Heat and Changes in Materials	Investigating Weather Systems	Investigating Human Systems

Materials

BSCS Science Tracks: Connecting Science and Literacy was developed by the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS) with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and is published by Kendal/Hunt Publishing Company.

If you have technical questions about this Web site, contact Joel' Bradley-Hess at
joel_bradley-hess@dpsk12.org or 720-423-3723.