4 to 6

By the end of grade 6

Learning outcomes by grade grouping

Nature of science and technology

STSE

It is expected students will...

General learning outcome

104

demonstrate that science and technology use specific processes to investigate the natural and constructed world or to seek solutions to practical problems

Specific learning outcomes

104-1

demonstrate processes for investigating scientific questions and solving technological problems

104-2

demonstrate and describe processes for investigating scientific questions and solving technological problems

104-3

demonstrate and explain the importance of selecting appropriate processes for investigating scientific questions and solving technological problems

104-4

compare the results of their investigations to those of others and recognize that results may vary

104-5

describe how results of similar and repeated investigations may vary and suggest possible explanations for variations

104-6

demonstrate that specific terminology is used in science and technology contexts

104-7

demonstrate the importance of using the languages of science and technology to communicate ideas, processes, and results

104-8

demonstrate the importance of using the languages of science and technology to compare and communicate ideas, processes, and results

General learning outcome

105

demonstrate that science and technology develop over time

Specific learning outcomes

105-1

identify examples of scientific questions and technological problems that are currently being studied

105-2

identify examples of scientific questions and technological problems addressed in the past

105-3

describe examples of scientific questions and technological problems that have been addressed differently at different times

105-4

identify examples of scientific knowledge that have developed from a variety of sources

105-5

identify examples of scientific knowledge that have developed as a result of the gradual accumulation of evidence

105-6

describe how evidence must be continually questioned in order to validate scientific knowledge

Relationships between science and technology

General learning outcome

106

describe ways that science and technology work together in investigating questions and problems and in meeting specific needs

Specific learning outcomes

106-1

describe examples of tools and techniques that extend our senses and enhance our ability to gather data and information about the world

106-2

describe examples of tools and techniques that have contributed to scientific discoveries

106-3

describe examples of improvements to the tools and techniques of scientific investigation that have led to new discoveries

106-4

describe instances where scientific ideas and discoveries have led to new inventions and applications

social and environmental contexts of science and technology

General learning outcome

107

describe applications of science and technology that have developed in response to human and environmental needs

Specific learning outcomes

107-1

describe examples, in the home and at school, of tools, techniques, and materials that can be used to respond to their needs

107-2

describe and compare tools, techniques, and materials used by different people in their community and region to meet their needs

107-3

compare tools, techniques, and scientific ideas used by different people around the world to interpret natural phenomena and meet their needs

107-4

provide examples of how science and technology have been used to solve problems in the home and at school

107-5

provide examples of how science and technology have been used to solve problems in their community and region

107-6

provide examples of how science and technology have been used to solve problems around the world

107-7

describe examples of modern technologies that did not exist in the past

107-8

describe examples of technologies that have been developed to improve their living conditions

107-9

compare past and current needs, and describe some ways in which science and technology have changed the way people work, live, and interact with the environment

107-10

identify women and men in their community who work in science- and technology-related areas

107-11

identify examples of careers in which science and technology play a major role

107-12

provide examples of Canadians who have contributed to science and technology

107-13

describe scientific and technological activities carried out by people from different cultures

107-14

identify scientific discoveries and technological innovations of people from different cultures

107-15

describe scientific and technological achievements that are the result of contributions by people from around the world

General learning outcome

108

describe positive and negative effects that result from applications of science and technology in their own lives, the lives of others, and the environment

Specific learning outcomes

108-1

identify positive and negative effects of familiar technologies

108-2

describe intended and unintended effects of a scientific or technological development

108-3

describe how personal actions help conserve natural resources and care for living things and their habitats

108-4

describe how technological products and systems can be used to conserve natural resources

108-5

describe how personal actions help conserve natural resources and protect the environment in their region

108-6

identify their own and their family's impact on natural resources

108-7

describe the impact of school and community on natural resources

108-8

describe the potential impact of the use by humans of regional natural resources

INITIATING AND PLANNING

SKILLS

It is expected students will...

General learning outcome

204

ask questions about objects and events in the local environment and develop plans to investigate those questions

Specific learning outcomes

204-1

propose questions to investigate and practical problems to solve

204-2

rephrase questions in a testable form

204-3

state a prediction and a hypothesis based on an observed pattern of events

204-4

define objects and events in their investigations

204-5

identify and control major variables in their investigations

204-6

identify various methods for finding answers to given questions and solutions to given problems, and select one that is appropriate

204-7

plan a set of steps to solve a practical problem and to carry out a fair test of a science-related idea

204-8

identify appropriate tools, instruments, and materials to complete their investigations

General learning outcome

205

observe and investigate their environment and record the results

Specific learning outcomes

205-1

carry out procedures to explore a given problem and to ensure a fair test of a proposed idea, controlling major variables

205-2

select and use tools in manipulating materials and in building models

205-3

follow a given set of procedures

205-4

select and use tools for measuring

205-5

make observations and collect information that is relevant to a given question or problem

205-6

estimate measurements

205-7

record observations using a single word, notes in point form, sentences, and simple diagrams and charts

205-8

identify and use a variety of sources and technologies to gather pertinent information

205-9

use tools and apparatus in a manner that ensures personal safety and the safety of others

205-10

construct and use devices for a specific purpose

ANALYSING AND INTERPRETING

General learning outcome

206

interpret findings from investigations using appropriate methods

Specific learning outcomes

206-1

classify according to several attributes and create a chart or diagram that shows the method of classifying

206-2

compile and display data, by hand or by computer, in a variety of formats including frequency tallies, tables, and bar graphs

206-3

identify and suggest explanations for patterns and discrepancies in data

206-4

evaluate the usefulness of different information sources in answering a given question

206-5

draw a conclusion, based on evidence gathered through research and observation, that answers an initial question

206-6

suggest improvements to a design or constructed object

206-7

evaluate personally constructed devices with respect to safety, reliability, function, efficient use of materials, and appearance

206-8

identify potential applications of findings

206-9

identify new questions or problems that arise from what was learned

COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK

General learning outcome

207

work collaboratively to carry out science-related activities and communicate ideas, procedures, and results

Specific learning outcomes

207-1

communicate questions, ideas, and intentions, and listen to others while conducting investigations

207-2

communicate procedures and results, using lists, notes in point form, sentences, charts, graphs, drawings, and oral language

207-3

work with team members to develop and carry out a plan

207-4

ask others for advice or opinions

207-5

identify problems as they arise and work cooperatively with others to find solutions

207-6

work with group members to evaluate the processes used in solving a problem

KNOWLEDGE

It is expected students will...

General learning outcome

300

describe and compare characteristics and properties of living things, objects, and materials

Specific learning outcomes

300-1

compare the external features and behavioural patterns of animals that help them thrive in different kinds of places

300-2

compare the structural features of plants that enable them to thrive in different kinds of places

300-3

describe how the human ear is designed to detect vibrations

300-4

compare the range of sounds heard by humans to that heard by other animals

300-5

compare different rocks and minerals from their local area with those from other places

300-6

describe rocks and minerals according to physical properties such as colour, texture, lustre, hardness, crystal shape (minerals)

300-7

identify and describe rocks that contain records of Earth's history

300-8

relate the characteristics of rocks and minerals to their uses

300-9

group materials as solids, liquids, or gases, based on their properties

300-10

identify properties such as texture, hardness, flexibility, strength, buoyancy, and solubility that allow materials to be distinguished from one another

300-11

relate the mass of a whole object to the sum of the mass of its parts

300-12

identify the source of the materials found in an object and describe the changes to the natural materials required to make the object

300-13

describe weather in terms of temperature, wind speed and direction, precipitation, and cloud cover

300-14

describe situations demonstrating that air takes up space, has weight, and expands when heated

300-15

describe the role of a common classification system for living things

300-16

distinguish between vertebrates and invertebrates

300-17

compare the characteristics of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes

300-18

compare characteristics of common arthropods

300-19

examine and describe some living things that cannot be seen with the naked eye

300-20

compare the conductivity of a variety of solids and liquids

300-21

identify characteristics and adaptations that enable birds and insects to fly

300-22

describe and justify the differences in design between aircraft and spacecraft

300-23

describe the physical characteristics of components of the solar system ­ specifically, the sun, planets, moons, comets, asteroids, and meteors

General learning outcome

301

describe and predict causes, effects, and patterns related to change in living and non-living things

Specific learning outcomes

301-1

predict how the removal of a plant or animal population affects the rest of the community

301-2

relate habitat loss to the endangerment or extinction of plants and animals

301-3

demonstrate and describe how the pitch and loudness of sounds can be modified

301-4

describe ways in which soil is formed from rocks

301-5

describe effects of wind, water, and ice on the landscape

301-6

demonstrate a variety of methods of weathering and erosion

301-7

describe natural phenomena that cause rapid and significant changes to the landscape

301-8

relate bodily changes, such as acne on the skin and growth of body hair, to growth and development

301-9

identify changes that can be made to an object without changing the properties of the material making up the object

301-10

identify and describe some changes to materials that are reversible and some that are not

301-11

describe changes that occur in the properties of materials when they interact with each other

301-12

describe examples of interactions between materials that result in the production of a gas

301-13

relate the constant circulation of water on Earth to the processes of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation

301-14

describe and predict patterns of change in local weather conditions

301-15

compare the adaptations of closely related animals living in different parts of the world and discuss reasons for any differences

301-16

identify changes in animals over time, using fossils

301-17

describe and demonstrate how lift is affected by the shape of a surface

301-18

describe and demonstrate methods for altering drag in flying devices

301-19

demonstrate how Earth's rotation causes the day and night cycle and how Earth's revolution causes the yearly cycle of seasons

301-20

observe and explain how the relative positions of Earth, the moon, and the sun are responsible for the moon phases, eclipses, and tides

301-21

describe how astronauts are able to meet their basic needs in space

General learning outcome

302

describe interactions within natural systems and the elements required to maintain these systems

Specific learning outcomes

302-1

identify a variety of local and regional habitats and their associated populations of plants and animals

302-2

describe how a variety of animals are able to meet their basic needs in their habitat

302-3

classify organisms according to their role in a food chain

302-4

describe the role played by body systems in helping humans and other animals to grow and reproduce and to meet their basic needs

302-5

describe the structure and function of the major organs of the digestive, excretory, respiratory, circulatory, and nervous systems

302-6

demonstrate how the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems work together to produce movement

302-7

describe the role of the skin

302-8

describe the body's defences, such as tears, saliva, skin, certain blood cells, and stomach secretions, against infections

302-9

describe nutritional and other requirements for maintaining a healthy body

302-10

identify patterns in indoor and outdoor air movement

302-11

describe the key features of a variety of weather systems

302-12

describe how microorganisms meet their basic needs, including obtaining food, water, and air, and moving around

302-13

identify constellations in the night sky

General learning outcome

303

describe forces, motion, and energy and relate them to phenomena in their observable environment

Specific learning outcomes

303-1

identify sources of natural and artificial light in the environment

303-2

demonstrate that light travels in all directions away from a source

303-3

distinguish between objects that emit their own light and those that require an external source of light to be seen

303-4

investigate how a beam of light interacts with a variety of objects, in order to determine whether the objects cast shadows, allow light to pass, or reflect light

303-5

predict the location, shape, and size of a shadow when a light source is placed in a given location relative to an object

303-6

demonstrate and describe how a variety of media can be used to change the direction of light

303-7

demonstrate that white light can be separated into colours

303-8

compare how light interacts with a variety of optical devices such as kaleidoscopes, periscopes, telescopes, and magnifying glasses

303-9

identify objects by the sounds they make

303-10

relate vibrations to sound production

303-11

compare how vibrations travel differently through a variety of solids and liquids and through air

303-12

investigate different kinds of forces used to move objects or hold them in place

303-13

observe and describe how various forces, such as magnetic, mechanical, wind, and gravitational, can act directly or from a distance to cause objects to move

303-14

demonstrate and describe the effect of increasing and decreasing the amount of force applied to an object

303-15

investigate and compare the effect of friction on the movement of an object over a variety of surfaces

303-16

demonstrate the use of rollers, wheels, and axles in moving objects

303-17

compare the force needed to lift a load manually with that required to lift it using a simple machine

303-18

differentiate between the position of the fulcrum, the load, and the effort force when using a lever to accomplish a particular task

303-19

design the most efficient lever to accomplish a given task

303-20

compare the force needed to lift a load using a single pulley system with that needed to lift it using a multiple pulley system

303-21

relate the transfer of energy from the sun to weather conditions

303-22

compare the characteristics of static and current electricity

303-23

compare a variety of electrical pathways by constructing simple circuits

303-24

describe the role of switches in electrical circuits

303-25

compare characteristics of series and parallel circuits

303-26

demonstrate how electricity in circuits can produce light, heat, sound, motion, and magnetic effects

303-27

describe the relationship between electricity and magnetism when using an electromagnet

303-28

identify various methods by which electricity can be generated

303-29

identify and explain sources of electricity as renewable or nonrenewable

303-30

identify and explain different factors that could lead to a decrease in electrical energy consumption in the home and at school

303-31

identify and explain the dangers of electricity at work or at play

303-32

describe the role of lift in overcoming gravity and enabling devices or living things to fly

303-33

identify situations which involve Bernoulli's principle

303-34

describe the means of propulsion for flying devices

4 to 6

From grade 4 through grade 6

ATTITUDES*

It is expected that students will be encouraged to...

General learning outcomes

409

appreciate the role and contribution of science and technology in their understanding of the world

410

realize that the applications of science and technology can have both intended and unintended effects

411

recognize that women and men of any cultural background can contribute equally to science

412

show interest and curiosity about objects and events within different environments

413

willingly observe, question, explore, and investigate

414

show interest in the activities of individuals working in scientific and technological fields

415

consider their own observations and ideas as well as those of others during investigations and before drawing conclusions

416

appreciate the importance of accuracy and honesty

417

demonstrate perseverance and a desire to understand

418

work collaboratively while exploring and investigating

419

be sensitive to and develop a sense of responsibility for the welfare of other people, other living things, and the environment

420

show concern for their safety and that of others in planning and carrying out activities and in choosing and using materials

421

become aware of potential dangers

*Because of the nature of the attitudes foundation, no specific learning outcomes have been identified.

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