Elementary Science Benchmarks

Constructing:

1. Generate questions about the world based on observations. (What good are bugs, why are there so many bugs?, where do bugs go in the winter?, why are certain bugs associated with specific plants or areas?)
2. Develop solutions to problems. (Best way to stop ants, how can we raise bugs in the classroom, how can we observe bugs without getting in the way or being bothered by the bugs?)
3. Manipulate simple devices. (magnifying glass)
4. Use simple measurement devices. (ruler for size of models, how far bugs jump…)
5. Develop strategies and skills for information gathering ( how to tell difference between spider, insect, centipede…how can we learn more about these animals?…sharing preknowledge, direct observations, cooperative research)
6. Construct charts and graphs. (keeping insects in the room, how much they eat, have young, growth, number of molts…)

Reflecting:

1. Develop an awareness of the need for evidence in making scientific decisions. (in keeping the insects how will you know how much to feed them? in setting up a butterfly garden how will you know what to plant?)
2. Show how science concepts can be illustrated through creative expression. (Singing, dancing the bee dance, drawing, acting as if you are the bug, put out a bunch of materials and have students demonstrate metamorphosis)
3. Develop an awareness of and sensitivity to the natural world. (Insects are the most numerous and diverse group of animals. They can be used to explore food chains, parasitism, mutualism; such as pollinating a plant and receiving nectar, adaptations to limiting factors, competition, metamorphosis and the cycle of life.

Life Science: Organization of Living Things

1. Explain characteristics and functions of observable body parts.
2. Compare and contrast (K-2) or classify (3-5) organisms on the basis of physical characteristics.
3. Describe life cycles of familiar organisms.
4. Compare and contrast food, energy and environmental needs of organisms.

Heredity:

1. Give evidence that characteristics are passed from parents to young.

Evolution:

1. Explain how physical and behavioral characteristics help them to survive in their environment. (dealing with winter)

Ecosystems:

1. Identify familiar organisms as part of a food chain.
2. Describe the basic requirements for all living things.
3. Design systems that encourage growing of particular plants or animals (butterfly garden or keeping bugs in the classroom).
4. Describe positive and negative effects of humans on the environment.

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