Foundational Math
- coursework
- experiences
- projects
The Elementary Science K-5 courses will spark curiosity in students and build a solid foundation in concepts across many types of sciences including Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science. Students will engage in science and engineering practices by asking questions, defining problems, developing and using models, planning and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematics and informational technology, constructing explanations, designing solutions, engaging in scientific arguments using evidence, and communicating results. A framework of active student learning supports and allows students to engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate throughout all courses. This dynamic format will help students build their own understanding from experiences and new ideas in order to facilitate a better understanding of the world around them.
Please view the Elementary Parents Guide for Grades 3-5 with guidance on helping your student transition to online learning and thrive at VLACS.
I can describe the process of energy causing motion. I can explain the process of change caused by energy. I can describe the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object. I can make predictions based on observations.
I can identify forms of energy. I can explain forms of energy. I can describe examples of forms of energy. I can describe the purpose of using measurements as information.
I can explain the effects of the force of gravity on an object. I can identify processes to overcome the force of gravity. I can describe the Law of Gravity.
I can identify objects that give off both light and heat. I can predict the impacts of the absence of the sun. I can explain the process of generating heat when two objects rub together. I can explain radiant energy from the sun can heat objects.
I can describe behaviors of light. I can identify sources of light energy. I can describe examples of light being reflected. I can describe examples of light being refracted. I can describe examples of light being absorbed.
I can identify the volume of a liquid. I can compare mass and weight. I can describe physical properties of matter. I can analyze the temperature using a thermometer. I can compare the temperatures of liquids and solids.
I can explain the star's appearance as points of light. I can compare the size of the sun to other stars. I can identify light as a form of energy. I can describe the purpose of a telescope.
I can describe animals’ physical characteristics. I can analyze animals’ behaviors. I can categorize animals into major groups.
I can identify the three states of matter. I can describe the properties of each state of water. I can explain the process of water changing state.
I can describe animals' response to different seasons. I can explain plants' response to different seasons. I can explain the importance of variations in characteristics among individuals of the same species provide them with advantages I can interpret the importance of communication among scientists.
I can identify flowering plants. I can compare the structures of flowering plants. I can identify non-flowering plants. I can compare the structures of non-flowering plants. I can explain the connection between fossils and the use of fossils as evidence of an organism's environment. I can classify plants as seed-producing plants or spore-producing plants.
I can explain plants' response to heat. I can explain plants' response to light. I can explain plants' response to gravity.
I can explain the needs of plants to grow. I can describe the production of food for a plant. I can interpret the reproduction of plants. I can describe the role of leaves, stems and roots in plants.
Module 01: Gravity
Module 02: Stars
Module 03: Forms of Energy
Module 04: Motion
Module 05: Heat
Module 06: Light
Module 07: Properties of Matter
Module 08: Changes in Matter
Module 09: Plant Structures and Functions
Module 10: Plant Responses
Module 11: Plant Classification
Module 12: Animal Classification
Module 13: Adaptations
To achieve success, students are expected to submit work in each course weekly. Students can learn at their own pace; however, “any pace” still means that students must make progress in the course every week. To measure learning, students complete self-checks, practice lessons, multiple choice questions, projects, discussion-based assessments, and discussions. Students and families are expected to maintain regular contact with teachers because, when teachers, students, and parents work together, students are successful.
Required Materials – Please view the list of materials before registering.
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