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The K to 12 elementary science curriculum aims to develop scientific literacy through inquiry-based learning and real-life applications, preparing students for advanced topics. It features a spiral progression of concepts, integration with other subjects, and emphasizes scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills. The curriculum covers major strands such as Physics and Earth and Space Science, using hands-on activities to foster curiosity and environmental awareness.

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2 views

Lecture-Notes-2

The K to 12 elementary science curriculum aims to develop scientific literacy through inquiry-based learning and real-life applications, preparing students for advanced topics. It features a spiral progression of concepts, integration with other subjects, and emphasizes scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills. The curriculum covers major strands such as Physics and Earth and Space Science, using hands-on activities to foster curiosity and environmental awareness.

Uploaded by

padamasonnytidong
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The Nature of Elementary Science in the K to 12 Program

I. Introduction

Science education in the K to 12 Curriculum aims to develop scientific literacy among


students. The elementary science curriculum introduces fundamental scientific
concepts using inquiry-based learning and real-life applications. It prepares students
for more advanced science topics in junior and senior high school by fostering curiosity,
critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Key Features of Elementary Science in K to 12:

• Spiral Progression – Concepts start at a basic level and are revisited in more
detail as students advance.
• Inquiry-Based Learning – Encourages students to observe, ask questions, and
conduct simple experiments.
• Integration with Other Subjects – Science is connected to Mathematics, English,
and Social Studies.
• Contextualized Learning – Uses local and real-world examples to make
learning more relevant.

Example:

• Topic: The Water Cycle (Grade 4)

o Students observe how water evaporates from a puddle outside the


classroom.

o They conduct a simple experiment: placing water in a plastic cup and


leaving it in the sun.

o They discuss how evaporation, condensation, and precipitation affect the


weather.

II. Science Curriculum Framework

The Science Curriculum Framework is built on scientific inquiry and problem-solving. It


encourages students to engage in active exploration rather than just memorization of
facts.

Framework Components:

1. Scientific Knowledge – Learning fundamental concepts (e.g., matter, energy,


weather, ecosystems).
2. Scientific Processes – Developing skills like observing, predicting, classifying, and
experimenting.

3. Scientific Values and Attitudes – Encouraging curiosity, objectivity, honesty, and


respect for nature.

Case Study: Inquiry-Based Learning in Action

A Grade 5 teacher wanted to teach "Why do some objects float while others sink?"
Instead of just explaining density, she asked students to:

1. Predict which classroom objects (pencil, rubber band, stone, eraser) will float or
sink.

2. Drop each item in a container of water and record observations.

3. Discuss their findings and connect them to real-world examples (e.g., why boats
float despite being heavy).

III. Standards, Scope, and Sequence of Science in the Elementary Level

The scope and sequence ensure that students learn science systematically. Topics are
categorized under four major strands:

A. Physics in Elementary Science

Physics concepts in elementary school focus on forces, energy, and motion.

Example:

• Grade 5 Physics – "How does heat transfer?"

o Students place a metal spoon in hot water and observe how it gets warm
(conduction).

o They compare it with hot air rising from a candle (convection) and feel the
heat from a distance (radiation).
B. Earth and Space Science in Elementary Science

This strand focuses on the Earth's processes, natural resources, and celestial bodies.

Case Study: Teaching Natural Disasters in Grade 6

A Grade 6 teacher in Palawan wanted to make students aware of typhoons and floods.
She:

1. Showed satellite images of past typhoons in the Philippines.

2. Had students simulate how floods occur using a sand model and pouring water
over it.

3. Asked them to propose solutions to reduce flood risks in their community.

IV. Conclusion

The elementary science curriculum in the K to 12 program is designed to build


foundational knowledge, develop inquiry skills, and foster environmental awareness.
By using hands-on activities, real-life examples, and a progressive learning approach,
students gain a strong understanding of Physics, Earth and Space Science, and other
disciplines.

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