Science Cumulative Progress Indicators (CPIs) for the end of the designated grade span

Place a "+" for an expectation that represents a strength & a "-" for a weakness

+ or -

A.     Habits of Mind

By the end of Grade 4, students will:

 1.         Raise questions about the world around them and be willing to seek answers through making careful observations and experimentation.

 2.        Keep records that describe observations, carefully distinguish actual observations from ideas and speculations, and are understandable weeks and months later.

 3.         Recognize that when a science investigation is replicated, very similar results are expected.

 4.         Know that when solving a problem it is important to plan and get ideas and help from other people.

Building upon knowledge and skills gained in preceding grades, by the end of Grade 8, students will:

 1.         Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of data, claims, and arguments.

 2.         Communicate experimental findings to others.

 3.         Recognize that the results of scientific investigations are seldom exactly the same and that replication is often necessary.

 4.         Recognize that curiosity, skepticism, open-mindedness, and honesty are attributes of scientists.

Building upon knowledge and skills gained in preceding grades, by the end of Grade 12, students will:

 1.         When making decisions, evaluate conclusions, weigh evidence, and recognize that arguments may not have equal merit.

 2.         Assess the risks and benefits associated with alternative solutions.

 3.         Engage in collaboration, peer review, and accurate reporting of findings.

 4.         Explore cases that demonstrate the interdisciplinary nature of the scientific enterprise.

B.     Inquiry and Problem Solving

 1.         Develop strategies and skills for information–gathering and problem-solving, using appropriate tools and technologies.

 2.         Identify the evidence used in an explanation.

 1.         Identify questions and make predictions that can be addressed by conducting investigations.

 2.         Design and conduct investigations incorporating the use of a control.

 3.         Collect, organize, and interpret the data that result from experiments.

 1.         Select and use appropriate instrumentation to design and conduct investigations.

 2.         Show that experimental results can lead to new questions and further investigations.

C.     Safety

 1.         Recognize that conducting science activities requires an awareness of potential hazards and the need for safe practices.

 2.         Understand and practice safety procedures for conducting science investigations.

 1.         Know when and how to use appropriate safety equipment with all classroom materials.

 2.         Understand and practice safety procedures for conducting science investigations.

 1.         Understand, evaluate and practice safe procedures for conducting science investigations.