7^th Grade Science Essentials

Systems

Analyze how the parts of a system interconnect and influence each other.

• Describe the flow of matter and energy through a system.

Inquiry

Understand how to plan for and conduct a scientific investigation.

• Make a logical plan for scientific controlled investigation including a prediction, materials, one controlled variable, one manipulated variable, responding variable, record data, multiple trials.
• Apply understanding of how to construct a scientific explanation using evidence and logic.

Application

Apply the scientific design process to develop solutions to problems or challenges.

· Generate a solution a problem or challenge include define the problem, collect information, explore ideas, create a plan, list the steps, test solutions and document the process.

· Explain possible solutions to a problem.

Analyses of systems through inquiry and application will guide the study of the Physical, Living and Earth/Space Systems.

Physical Systems

Understand how balanced and unbalanced forces can change the motion of objects.

Earth and Space Systems

Understand and analyze the relationship between weather and climate

Understand how to classify rocks, soils, air, and water into groups based on their chemical and physical properties.

Understand the processes that continually change the surface of the Earth.

Understand the components and interconnections of Earth’s systems.

• The core, the mantle, oceanic and crustal plates, landforms, the hydrosphere, and atmosphere

Living Systems

Understand how natural selection accounts for species diversity and how species change over time.

Understand how individual organisms, including cells, obtain matter and energy for life processes.

Understand how organisms in ecosystems interact with and respond to their environment and other organisms.