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Middle School
Our Curriculum
The Pardes Way
Mission Statement: Pardes Middle School motivates students to achieve their personal best through our Judaic principles and academic prowess. Our students work together to achieve scholastic eminence while maintaining what is just and Merciful in the eyes of Hashem.
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Philosophy statement: We believe that smaller class sizes allow our teachers to provide differentiated instruction so that students receive an individualized education that will challenge them beyond their academic abilities. With a strong foundation in vocabulary and critical thinking questioning, students will be able to apply learning to real world situations. We are creating a learning environment where students thoroughly enjoy learning and living up to the teacher and school expectations.
We honor Hashem in our words and actions
Respect is what we give, respect is what we get
We value our academics and Judaic principles
We strive to have good days on purpose
We use our words to encourage and uplift each other
Pardes has written curriculum standards that cater to our students through differentiated instruction and are consistent with State and National standards. Some of our subject areas include: Judaic studies, english language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, earth science , and physical education.
Chumash: Dive into the profound wisdom of the Chumash as we explore selected verses and delve into new Rashi commentaries. The journey from Bereishis/Shemos to Sefer Bamidbar brings forth fascinating insights into our heritage.
Gemara: Unravel the intricate world of Mishnah, Gemara, and Meforshim as we engage in Shakkla V'Tarya and Machlokes. Analytical thinking and a deeper understanding of our Talmudic tradition are emphasized.
Navi: Experience the epic tales of our ancestors through the study of Navi. Our students engage in storyline exploration, textual studies, and research projects to bring history alive.
Halacha: Navigate the practical world of Halacha as we interact with the meaningful sections of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. This course provides a rich understanding of our traditions and laws, guiding students in leading a meaningful Jewish life.
Biur Tefillah: Develop a personal connection with Jewish prayer as we explore the meanings and themes embedded within our liturgy.
Jewish History: Travel through time, from the era of Avraham to the present, to gain a holistic view of our past and build a strong Jewish identity.
Torah VR: Experience the future of Jewish education with Torah VR, where the 613 Mitzvos come to life through immersive experiences and VR development learning.
Yediyos Klolios (Comprehensive Knowledge): Acquire a well-rounded Jewish education, deepening your knowledge and appreciation of our rich tradition.
Yomim Tovim: Live and learn the Jewish calendar, experiencing the beauty of our traditions and the significance of each holiday.
Ivrit (Hebrew Language): Strengthen your connection to our heritage through an enriching study of the Hebrew language, expanding vocabulary and honing Kriah and Kesiva skills.
Parsha Study: Form a deep and meaningful bond with our sacred text as we connect personally with the weekly Torah portion, preparing a text-based Dvar Torah each week.
Collections is a language arts curriculum that provides instruction and the opportunity for students to learn how to debate, express and communicate through written and oral presentations.
Students will learn to read, research, write and speak using textbooks and internet resources. Understanding how to write and speak using the conventions of standard english. Students will have an understanding of credible and reliable sources and how to give credit for these sources to avoid plagiarism.
By the end of the year students will know how to read different genres of literature and summarize and create writing samples that show a proficient understanding of grammar and usage. Students will be able to write, speak and debate in an organized and grammatically correct manner.
Curriculum Content
1. Dealing with Disaster
A. Informational Text
B. Poetry
C. Short Story
D. History Writing
E. Newspaper Article
F. Documentary
2. Facing Fear
A. Short Story
B. Poetry
C. Online Articles
D. Magazine articles
E. Informational text
3. Making your Voices Heard
A. Short Story
B. Editorial
C. Commentary
D. Informational Text
E. Poetry
4. Decisions that Matter
A. Memoir
B. Biography
C. Autobiography
D. Short Story
E. Poetry
F. News article
G. TV Newscast
5. Animal Intelligence
A. Short Story
B. Speech
C. Poetry
D. Science Writing
E. Informational Text
6. What Tales Tell
A. Greek Mythology
B. Poetry
C. Chinese Folk Tale
D. Drama
E. Novel
F. Graphic Story
G. Essay
Curriculum Goals
PD.ELA 6.1 Students will be able to read, write and summarize information using sentence structure and grammar rules
PD.ELA 6.2 Students will know how to build a strong argument using credible sources and persuasive techniques
PD.ELA6.3 Students will learn to read informational text and organize information to write a summary with precise language and vocabulary
PD. ELA6.4 Students will write a multi-character narrative from different points of view
PD.ELA6.5 Students will use the writing process to create summaries and short stories from brainstorming to publishing
PD.ELA6.6 Students will conduct research using the internet and textbook materials verifying credibility, reliability and usefulness
PD.ELA6.7 Students will learn how to outline textual information, summarize, paraphrase and quote credible sources\
PD.ELA6.8 Students will speak, listen and have group discussions in an organized manner after establishing and following a procedure
PD.ELA 6.9 Students will analyze and evaluate presentations for purpose, credibility and reliability
PD.ELA 7.1 Students will understand their audience and how to deliver a presentation in style with relevant information.
PD.ELA 7.2 Students will create audio, video and images using computer software and programs
State Standards
Conventions of Standard English
LAFS.6.L.1.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking
LASF.6.L.1.2 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing
Craft and Structure
LAFS.6.RL.2.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative
LAFS.6.RL.2.6 Explain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text
Vocabulary Acquisition and Use
LAFS.6.L.3.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 6 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies
LAFS.6.L.3.5 Demonstrated understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings
LAFS.6.L.3.6 Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain specific words and phrases; gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression
Key Ideas and Details
LAFS.6.RL.1.1 Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text
LAFS.6.RL.1.2 Determine a theme or central ideas of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgements
LAFS.6.RL.1.3 Analyze in detail how a key individual, event, or idea is introduced, illustrated, and elaborated in a text
Range of Reading and Level of Text Complexity
LAFS.6.RL.4.10 By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, poems, in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range
Text Types and Purposes
LAFS.6.W.1.1 Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
LAFS.6.W.1.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization and analysis of relevant content.
Research to Build and Present Knowledge
LAFS.6.W.3.8 Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources; assess the credibility of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and providing basic bibliographic information for sources
Production and Distribution of Writing
LAFS.6.W.2.4 Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
LAFS.6.W.2.5 With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting or trying a new approach
Range of Writing
LAFS.6.W.4.10 Write routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline specific tasks, purposes and audiences
Knowledge of language
LAFS.6.L.2.3 Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking reading, or listening
LAFS.6.L.3.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 6 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies
LAFS.6.L.3.5 Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships and nuances in word meanings
LAFS.6.L.3.6 Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
LAFS.6.RL.3.9 Compare and contrast one author’s presentation of events with that of another (primary and secondary resources)
Presentation of Knowledge and Ideas
LAFS.6.SL.2.4 Present claims and findings, sequencing ideas logically and using pertinent descriptions, facts, and details to accentuate main ideas or themes; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume and clear pronunciation.
LAFS.6.SL.2.5 Include multimedia components and visual displays in presentations to clarify information
Comprehension and Collaboration
LAFS.6.SL.1.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly
LAFS.6.SL.1.3 Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, distinguishing claims, that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not
Outcomes
Students will gain and retain the following skills:
Collaborative work
Inference based on evidence
Reading complex text from a variety of genres
Analyze informational text for supporting evidence
Research a variety of media for credible sources
Proficiency in reading comprehension, grammatical writing, oral presentation and enriched vocabulary
Process of planning, producing, revising, and presenting written and verbal presentations.
Assessment
Students will take Growth Measurement tests provided by Houghton Mifflin. Students will be assigned writing projects to assess grammar and conventional standards of English. Reading comprehension and vocabulary tests will be administered bi-weekly. Students will not receive a physical grade but they will have to study and make any corrections on their test using textbook and internet resources when applicable. Students will have debates and presentations used as performance assessments.
The Go Math curriculum equips students with math skills through hands-on activities, group collaboration and stimulating exploration of concepts.
Students apply math skills to real world applications. Through observation and group work students discover new ways to solve mathematical problems. Students will choose the best method to solve math problems using manipulatives and problem solving skills.
Curriculum Content
1. Whole Numbers and Decimals
A. Divide Multi-Digit Numbers
B. Prime Factorization
C. Least Common Multiples
D. Greatest Common Factor
E. Add and Subtract Decimals
F. Multiply Decimals
G. Divide Decimals by Whole numbers
H. Divide with decimals
2. Fractions
A. Fractions and decimals
B. Compare and Order Fractions
C. Multiply Fractions
D. Simplify Factors
E. Model Fraction Division
F. Divide Fractions
G. Divide Mixed Numbers
3. Expressions
A. Exponents
B. Evaluated Expressions Involving Exponents
C. Write and Identify Parts of Algebraic Expression and formulas
D. Use Algebraic Expressions
E. Identify Equivalent Expressions
4. Relationships between variables
A. Independent and dependent variables
B. Equations and Tables
C. Graph Relationships
D. Equations and Graphs
5. Area
A. Area of Parallelograms
B. Area of Triangle
C. Area of Trapezoids
D. Area of Composite figures
E. Figures on the Coordinate plane
6. Surface area and volume
A. Three Dimensional Figures and Nets
B. Surface Area
C. Volume of rectangular prisms
7. Units of measurement
A. Convert Units
B. Transform units
C. Distance, Rate, and Time Intervals
8. Percents
A. Model Percents
B. Percents, Fractions and Decimals
C. Percent of a quantity
D. Find the Whole from a percent
9. Rates & Ratios
A. Ratios and Rates
B. Equivalent Ratios
C. Use Equivalent Ratios
D. Find Unit Rates
E. Use unit rates
F. Equivalent Ratios and Graphs
10. Rational Numbers
A. Understand Positive and Negative numbers
B. Compare and order integers
C. Rational Numbers and the Number line
D. Compare and order rational numbers
E. Absolute value
F. Rational numbers and the Coordinate plane
G. Ordered pair relationships
H. Distance on the Coordinate Plane
11. Equations and Inequalities
A. Solutions of Equations
B. Write Equations
C. Solve Addition and Subtraction Equations
D. Solve Multiplication and Division Equations
E. Solutions for Inequalities
F. Write and graph Inequalities
12. Data Displays and Measures of Center
A. Recognize statistical questions
B. Describe Data Collection
C. Dot plots and frequency tables
D. Histograms
E. Mean as a Fair Share and Balance Point
F. Measures of Center
G. Effects of Outliers
13. Variability & Data distribution
A. Box Plots
B. Mean Absolute Deviation
C. Measures of variability
D. Choose and Apply Appropriate Measures of Center and Variability
E. Describe Distributions
PD.Math1.1 Students will learn to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators, including fractions greater than one and mixed numbers as a pre-skill to multiplying and dividing fractions
PD.Math1.2 Students will solve real-world problems using the four operations, fractions and whole numbers as a pre-skill to using multiple strategies to solve mathematical problems
PD.Math1.3 Students will be able to explain how to solve problems verbally, memorizing formulas and understanding the appropriate time to use them.
PD.Math1.4 Students will proficiently divide multi-digit numbers using the customary formula
PD.Math1.5 Students will be able to identify the greatest common factor and least common multiple of two whole numbers
PD. Math1.6 Students will be able to solve mathematical problems using the assigned property (i.e. distributive, communicative, etc.)
PD.Math 1.7 Students will be able to write the prime factorization of a number
PD.Math 1.8 Students will be able to compute multi-digit decimal using the operations of math.
PD.Math 2.1 Students will understand line diagrams and coordinate axes on a given line and how to apply this to real-world instances.
PD.Math2.2 Students will be able to understand fractions as decimals and vice versa.
PD. Math2.3 Students will learn to plot numbers on a given number line using rational numbers and integers.
PD.Math2.4 Students will learn to locate and place pairs of integers and other rational numbers on a coordinate plane.
PD.Math2.5 Students will learn to order rational numbers
PD.Math2.6 Students will learn to determine the absolute value of rational numbers
PD.Math2.7 Students will be able to use visual models and equations to solve problems
PD.Math.3.1 Students will be able to understand positive and negative numbers as it relates to temperature, sea level, credits/debits)
PD.Math.3.2 Students will be able to comprehend the position of number line
P.D. Math 3.3 Students will be able to interpret and explain inequalities and the order for rational numbers.
P.D. Math 3.4 Students will be able to compare and order integers
PD.Math3.5 Students will understand quadrants and how to plot numbers on a coordinate plane
PD.Math3.6 Students will be able to explain the relationship between points on a coordinate plane
PD.Math3.7 Students will be able to solve mathematical problems as it relates to the real world using graphs, quadrants and the coordinate plane.
PD.Math.4.1 Students will be able to explain ratios and the ratio relationship between two quantities.
PD.Math.4.2 Students will learn the concept and jargon in context of a ratio
PD.Math.4.3 Students will be able to use multiplication to find equivalent ratios
PD.Math.4.4Students will learn to use tables to solve problems involving equivalent ratios
PD.Math.4.4 Students will be able to use unit rates to make comparisons in multiple ways.
PD.Math5.1 Students will be able use a model to show percentages as a rate per 100
PD.Math5.2 Students will be able to write percentages as fractions and decimals
PD.Math5.3 Students will be able to write decimals and fractions as percentages.
PD.Math6.1 Students will be able to convert units within a measurement system
PD.Math6.2 Students will be able to convert units to solve problems.
PD.Math6.3 Students will be able to solve problems involving distance, rate and time.
PD.Math7.1 Students will understand how to write and solve numerical expressions using exponents
PD.Math7.2 Students will learn how to compute a mathematical equation using the order of operations
PD.Math7.3 Students will understand math jargon and how to identify parts of a numerical and algebraic expression
PD.Math7.4 Students will learn how to write algebraic expressions using variables
PD.Math7.5 Students will be able to compute algebraic expressions or standard formulas such as Order of operations, area, perimeter
PD.Math7.6 Students will be able to solve algebraic expressions using strategies of combining like-terms and order of operations.
PD.Math7.7 Students can identify equivalent algebraic expressions
PD.Math7.8 Students can determine whether a number is a solution of an equation
PD.Math8.1 Students will solve real-world and mathematical equations using variables
PD.Math8.2 Students can determine whether a number is a solution of an inequality
PD.Math8.3 Students will be to graph inequalities on a number line to represent real-world situations
PD.Math9.1 Students will understand the difference between independent and dependent variables.
PD.Math10.1 Students will be able to evaluate the area of parallelograms, rectangles, triangles, polygons and other shapes
PD.Math10.2 Students will be able to find the area of composite figures
PD.Math10.3 Students will be able to compute the missing lengths using the coordinate plane
PD.Math11.1 Students will be able to evaluate the surface area of three dimensional shapes
PD.Math11.2 Students will be able to find the volume through a formula in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.
PD.Math12.1 Students will be able to create and identify questions that pertain to statistics
PD.Math12.2 Students will be able to explain data and how it is collected and displayed.
PD.Math12.3 Students will be able to organize data using dot plots, box plots, a number line and histograms
PD.Math12.4 Students will have an understanding of mean, median, mode, range and how to find the value
PD.Math12.5 Students will be able to explain a set of data using mean, median and mode
PD.Math13.1 Students will be able to summarize a data set using range, interquartile range and mean absolute deviation
PD.Math13.2 Students will be able to explain measures of center and variability to describe a data set
PD.Math13.3 Students will be able to explain data to answer statistical questions
Student Outcomes
Students are expected to comprehend the following skills:
Model with mathematics
Reason abstractly and quantitatively
Construct arguments and critique reasoning of others
Use appropriate tools and formulas to solve problems strategically
Assessments
In Go Math students will be assessed using the Growth Measure Assessment included in the curriculum so that students are assessed on material they learned. Students are also given lesson quizzes and unit tests. Tests include paper/pencil, electronic and performance assessments using models, graphs and charts. Each lesson comes complete with Summative Chapter Review assessments, found at the end of each chapter in the textbook.
State Standards
6.NS.2 Compute fluently with multi-digit numbers and find common factors and multiples.
6.NS.1 Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication and division to divide fractions.
6.EE.1 Apply and extend previous understandings of arithmetic to algebraic expressions
6.EE.2 Reason about and solve one-variable equations and inequalities.
6.G.1 Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area and volume.
6.EP Understand ratio concepts and use ratio reasoning to solve problems.
6.NS.3 Apply and extend previous understandings of numbers to the system of rational numbers.
6.SP.1 Develop understanding of statistical variability
6.S.P.2 Summarize and describe distributions on a number line, dot plots, histograms and box plots.
Middle School social studies is a geography-based curriculum designed to lay a foundation of the world’s landscapes, natural resources and a practical knowledge of the world. It is expected that they will work to develop an understanding of those with whom they are from a different race, region, religion and culture.
In geography, students will explore the physical and cultural world through a variety of learning resources and differentiated instruction. Students will be able to answer the Essential Questions, building on prior knowledge to support their ideas and give educated opinions.
When the school year has ended, students will have increased their knowledge of the world they live in and the history of the people we share the world with. Students will learn about the world we live in and the establishment of varying empires, cultures and religions. Students will understand how geography and history shape the world we live in today.
Content Outline
1. A Geographer’s World
A. Branches of Geography
B. Themes of Geography
C. Geographer’s Tools
2. The Physical World
A. Earth and Sun’s Energy
B. Water on Earth
C. The Land
D. Weather and Climate
E. Natural Resources
3. The Human World
A. Culture
B. Population
C. Settlement patterns
D. Human Environment Interaction
4. Government and Citizenship
A. World Governments
B. Citizenships
5. Economics
A. Basics and systems
B. Money and Banking
C. Living in Global Economy
6. The United States
A. History and Culture
B. USA today
7. Canada
A. History and Culture
B. Canada today
8. Early Civilizations of Latin America
A. The Olmec and the Maya
B. The Aztecs
C. Andean Civilization
9. Mexico
A. History and Culture
B. Mexico Today
10. Central America and the Caribbean
11. South American
A. Brazil
B. Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay
C. Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas
12. Europe Before 1700s
A. Prehistoric Cultures
B. Ancient Greece
C. Roman Empire
D. Byzantine Empire
E. Middle Ages
F. Renaissance and Reformation
13. History of Modern Europe
A. Science and Exploration
B. Political Change in Europe
C. The Industrial Revolution
D. World War I
E. World War II
F. Europe Since 1945
14. Southern Europe
A. Greece and Italy
B. Spain and Portugal
15. Western Europe
A. France and Benelux Countries
B. Germany and Alpine Countries
C. The British Isles
D. Scandinavia
16. Eastern Europe
A. Poland and Baltic Republics
B. Inland Eastern Europe
C. Balkan Countries
17. Russian and the Caucasus
18. Early Civilization of the Fertile Crescent and the Nile
A. River Valley Civilizations
B. Sumerian Civilization
C. Later Peoples of the Fertile Crescent
D. Geography and the Nile Valley Kingdoms
E. The Middle and New Kingdoms
F. Kingdoms of Kush
Curriculum Goals
PDWG 6.1 Students will learn to view the world in new ways through their understanding of physical and human geography.
PDWG 6.2 Students will better understand the world by studying maps, understanding geographic features and using geographers’ tools.
PDWG 6.3 Students investigate the division of the world into regions and continents and begin to ask geographic questions to analyze the changing perspectives represented by maps. They access a variety of sources to discover the value of different types of sources.
PDWG 6.4 Students will identify physical features, climates, and resources in the regions of the United States
PDWG 6.5 Students explore the elements and nature of physical processes of the earth, with attention to how these processes can lead to natural disaster and peoples’ reaction to them. They draw evidence from diverse types of resources, including text, maps and photographs.
PDWG 6.6 Students will discover how immigration shaped democracy, history, government and culture in the United States
PDWG 6.7 Students will understand how early settlers adapted to their environment and developed agriculture.
PDWG 6.8 Students will learn about the formation, culture, and civilization of the following:
Greek Empire
Roman Empire
Byzantine Empire
PDWG 6.9 Students will understand the influence of religion and social systems in Europe in the Middle Ages
PDWG 7.1 Students will learn how the Renaissance and Reformation periods introduced new ways of thinking in Europe
PDWG 7.3 Students will understand how the first civilizations were formed in Mesopotamia.
PDWG 7.4 Students will understand how war helped shape democracy and civilization.
PDWG 7.5 Students will learn how fresh water stabilizes a civilization.
PDWG 7.6 Students will discover farming techniques that supported the growth of civilization
PDWG 7.7 Students will explore Egyptian civilization and how religion and the Nile River influenced the roles in society and trade.
PDWG 7.8 Students will understand the roles in society, military power, and government influence on Egypt.
PDWG 7.9 Students will learn how laws and government powers helped shape trading power in Kush and Egypt
PDWG 7.1b Students will study the development of Indian civilization along the Indus River.
PDWG 7.2b Students will understand how religion and politics have a culture affect on the world then and today
PDWG 7.3b Students will learn the religions of India such as: Buddhism and Hinduism and how they developed and grew.
PDWG 7.4b Students will learn about the development and reign of Indian Empires such as Mauryas, the Guptas, and the Mughals Empires and their contributions to the arts and sciences.
State Standards
Critically analyze media to assess different viewpoints and detect bias, opinion, and stereotypes.
Listen open-mindedly to views contrary to their own.
Collaboratively develop and practice strategies for managing and resolving conflict.
Demonstrate understanding of democratic values and processes.
Make informed and reasoned decisions.
Accept decisions that are made for the common good.
Critical Thinking Skills
Identify main issues
Evaluate information from various sources
Distinguish between verifiable and unverifiable data
Draw inferences
Distinguish between fact and opinion
Develop debating skills
Draw conclusions
Use a grid system to locate places
Identify and interpret map symbols
Locate physical and political features
Understand scales and projections
Compare various maps
Use maps to understand and explain historical and current events
Picture, Chart, Graph, and Table Interpretation Skills
Interpret pictures, apply information and draw conclusions
Understand cartoons as a means to express views and interpret the view expressed
Interpret the information given on graphs, charts, and tables, and draw inferences from the data
Relate the information from pictures, charts, graphs and tables with that gained from other sources
Understand and construct timelines
Chronology and Time Skills
Understand the idea of historical time
Use timelines
Understand what makes historical periods different
Recognize the causes and effects of prejudice on individuals, groups, and society.
Recognize the value of cultural diversity, as well as the potential for misunderstanding.
Listen open-mindedly to views contrary to their own.
Demonstrate understanding of democratic values and processes.
Make informed and reasoned decisions.
Outcomes
Students will obtain knowledge and the following skills:
Sequence of events
Reading comprehension
Critical thinking skills
Compare and contrast
Use of graphic organizers
Assessments
Students will be assessed on vocabulary, reading comprehension, lesson quizzes, unit tests and graphic organizer activities. Students will also be given quarterly projects to display learning through the arts and technology.
Into Science: Earth and Space Sciences is a curriculum designed to provide differentiated instruction for struggling students, on-level learners and advanced students. Each unit provides students with opportunities to work in groups and connect lessons to real world experiences and other academic areas.
Earth and Space Sciences explore the Earth, natural resources and human interaction. Students will study the weather, climate and natural disasters across the United States. They will apply concepts to real world experiences where they gain knowledge and methods to make meaningful connections with issues and topics that influence regions.
Content Outline
1. Earth’s Natural Hazards
A. Natural Hazard Prediction
B. Engineer It: Reducing the Effects of Natural Hazards
2. Circulation of Earth’s Air and Water
A. Circulation in Earth’s Atmosphere
B. Circulation in Earth’s Oceans
C. The Water Cycle
3. Weather and Climate
A. Weather and Weather prediction
B. Influences on Climate
4. Resources in Earth
A. Natural Resources
B. Human Population and Resource Use
C. Resource Use and Earth’s Systems
5. Human Impacts on Earth Systems
A. Engineer It: Reducing Human Impacts on the Environment
B. Climate Change
6. The Dynamic Earth
A. Geologic Change and Surface Processes
B. The Rock Cycle
C. Earth’s Plates
7. Earth Through Time
A. The Age of Earth’s Rocks
B. Earth’s History
8. The Solar System and Universe
A. Earth and Solar System
B. Gravity and Universe
C. Modeling in Space Science
9. Patterns in the Solar System
A. The Earth-Sun-Moon System
B. Season
Curriculum Goals
Earth’s Natural Hazards
PDES 6.1 Students will be interpret graphs and charts on natural disasters
PDES 6.2 Students will be able to hypothesize scientific outcomes using experimentation and observation
Circulation of Earth’s Air and Water
PDES 6.3 Students will be able to create models describing the water cycle propelled by energy from the sun and the force of gravity
PDES 6.4 Students will understand regional climate and patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation
Weather and Climate
PDES 6.7 Students will collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses results in changes in weather conditions
PDES 6.8 Students will be able to explain interactions that cause changes in weather and influence regional climates
The Dynamic Earth
PDES 6.7 Students will be understand academic vocabulary and the distinct scientific meanings of these words
PDES 6.8 Students will be able to create models to explain cycles and processes of Earth’s materials and energies that propel these processes
PDES 6.9 Students will be able to create and interpret data using charts and graphs
Earth Through Time
PDES 6.8 Students will be able to construct a scientific explanation basic on information learned content on Earth’s 4.6 billion-year-old history
PDES 6.9 Students will be able to identify the difference between relative dating and absolute dating and how it applies to real world events
PDES 7.1 Students will create a model and show understanding of water cycles
PDES 7.2 Students will be able to predict regional climates based on
the heating and rotation of the Earth
PDES 7.3 Students will be able to create a model of the solar system
PDES 7.4 Students will understand cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons
PDES 7.5 Students will learn about the phases of the moon
PDES 7.6 Students will understand the cause of how lunar and solar eclipses occur
PDES 7.7 Students will understand the motion of the sun as it pertains to night and day
The Solar System and Universe
PDES 7.8 Students will be able to explain the role of gravity in the solar system
PDES 7.9 Students will be able to research, analyze and argue claims using credible sources about the gravitational interactions in the solar system.
PDES 7.1.1 Students will be able to recall the planets in the solar system
Patterns in the Solar System
PDES 7.1.2 Students will be able to create a model of the Solar System
PDES 7.1.3 Students will understand the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons
State Standards
RST.6-8.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
RST.6-8.9 Compare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text on the same topic.
WHST.6-8.2.a-f Write informative/ explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/experiments, or technical processes
SL.8.5 Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen understanding and evidence and add interest.
MS ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
MS-ESS3-2 Analyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.
6.E.2 The student will demonstrate an understanding of the interactions within Earth’s systems that regulate weather and climate.
MS-Ess2-6 Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
MS-ESS2-5 Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.
MS-ESS3-4 Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth’s systems
MS-ESS3-3 Apply Scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
MS-Ess2-4 Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth’s systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
MS-ESS2-3 Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of the past plate motions.
MS-ESS3-1 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distribution of Earth’s mineral, energy and groundwater are the result of past and current geoscience processes.
MS-ESS1-1 Develop and use a model of the the Earth-sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.
MS-ESS1-3 Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.
MS-ESS1-4 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth’s 4.6 billion year old history
Outcomes
Through a comprehensive Science curriculum students will gain the following skills:
Experimentation
Exploration
Hypothesize
Collaborative work
Analyze and investigate
Design and Predict
Assessment
Students will conduct hands-on laboratory experiments and they will be required to record their findings. The curriculum uses formative assessments in the form of quizzes and graphic organizers. These assessments monitor learning to identify areas of improvement. Summative assessments will be given to students in the form of final projects, chapter tests, and written works.
Through Houghton Mifflin, students will take a diagnostic test and two assessments to monitor growth or regression in Math and ELA. The Growth Measurement assessment will identify students' weaknesses and give teachers and parents the data necessary to create a plan of action to strengthen weaknesses and put students on a path to success. It will also highlight student success to ensure we enable every child to reach their full potential.
Enabled test windows allow Growth Measures to be assigned to students. Three test windows (beginning on July 1 and ending on June 30 of the following year) make up a default academic year. Growth Measures are meant to be administered once per test window.
Test windows are enabled by default but can be disabled or modified to reflect the unique structure of a school or school district.
Beginning of Year (BOY): July 1 – October 31
Middle of Year (MOY): November 1 – March 1
End of Year (EOY): March 2 – Jun 30, 2023
Each chapter comes with a test and multiple quizzes. Students will be expected to study for assessments. All incorrect answers will be corrected by students using their resources (i.e. classwork, text book, previous quizzes) to find the correct answers.