Learner Outcomes and Activities

Scientific Method

9.1.1.2.1 Recognize a scientific experiment by making a hypothesis, analyzing data and /or making a conclusion on this data

Loads and loads of science experiments!

Make observations and journal about them

Maintain a blog and newsletter

Structures in Plants and Animals

9.4.1.1 Recognize that plants and animals have different structures and methods to obtain energy and maintain homeostasis.

This is our biggest standard and will spiral throughout the year.

Highlights:

We will touch on human digestion, nutrition, reproduction, and types of teeth  We will connect this learning to our own lives by talking
about healthy eating, living and dental care.

We will touch on the life cycle of chickens and ducks. Students  will have “hands-on/ eyes on” experience with the animals that live
in the courtyard.

Additionally, we will touch on plant structure, photosynthesis and pollination.  We round out this unit by planting and tending heirloom
plants in our classroom.

Ecosystems

9.4.2.1.2   Recognize that an ecosystem can change when a new species is introduced to it.

Students will create a Google presentation regarding one ecosystem

Traits

9.4.3.2. Recognize that traits are passed from parent to offspring

Loads of trait activities and checklists

Observation of animals

Population Survival

9.4.3.3.5 Recognize that the principles of natural selection affect the survival rate of groups of organisms

Focus on Minnesota Bees, Asian Carp,  and other local species

Reading from A to Z Science will add more depth to this unit as we will also learn about animals from other countries.

Positive and Negative changes

9.4.4.1.2 Recognize the risks and benefits of changing a natural ecosystem as a result of human activity

Recycling and good lifestyle habits

Research Minnesota and invasive species

Learn about the water cycle and how to be good to our earth regarding water