This course is aligned to the sixth grade Michigan Grade Level Content Expectations.
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Sixth Grade Science
In sixth grade students gain a greater understanding of the nature and structure of scientific knowledge and learn to recognize evidence and ways to think about designing solutions to problems. In life science students explore the variation of ecosystems as they gain in-depth knowledge of the biotic and abiotic factors influencing the balance of an ecosystem. They describe the relationships and interactions within ecosystems including those that cause ecosystems to change. In physical science students deepen their understanding of energy through investigations demonstrating the transformation of kinetic energy and energy transfer by radiation, conduction, or convection. In earth science students extend their knowledge of earth processes related to rock and soil formation and surface features. They analyze evidence for plate tectonics and apply an understanding of fossils and rock formations to questions about geologic history. |
Earth MaterialsTopically, the unit addresses concepts related to earth materials (rocks, minerals, soil) and landforms which are produced from erosion and deposition of earth materials. To organize the content of this unit the Oakland Schools Science Scope has established two learning cycles:
Cycle 1: Rocks and Minerals Cycle 2: Changing Landscapes The Earth Materials unit is followed by another geology unit that focuses on plate tectonic theory and earth history which is where SCoPE addresses earth’s magnetic field. Together they provide a strong overview of the science of geology. 
Energy in actionIn this physical science unit, students conduct investigations demonstrating the transformation between potential and kinetic energy. They demonstrate that energy is not lost or gained in the process. They explore how heat energy might be transferred through convection, conduction, and radiation. Students explain the conservation of mass and the structure and relative motion of particles (atoms or molecules) in the various states of matter.
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earth historyIn this Earth science unit students explore the processes and structure of the solid earth. The unit addresses concepts related to evidence for deep time and the geologic time scale, relative age dating techniques including the use of index fossils and on ancient environments reconstructed from evidence in the rock record. To organize the content of this unit a learning cycle called "Exploring Earth History." Students investigations center on the evidence for the key conclusions of these topics through the use of models and data analysis drawn from real world geologic settings.
EcosystemsIn this life science unit students describe the relationships and roles of biotic and abiotic factors within ecosystems, using those in the Great Lakes region as local and familiar examples. They recognize patterns in the flow of energy in ecosystems, and categorize organisms as producers, consumers, and decomposers based on the way in which they obtain this energy. Students explore relationships and interactions within populations and discover how interrelations impact population stability. They identify abiotic factors and examine their effect on ecosystems. Students analyze the impact and predict the outcome of human activity affecting the balance of an ecosystem
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plate tectonicsIn this Earth science unit students explore the processes and structure of the solid earth. The unit addresses concepts related to evidence for plate tectonics, the nature of plate boundaries, and natural hazards. The content of this unit centers on a learning cycle titled "Evidence for the Plate Tectonic Theory." Student investigations are centered on evidence for the key conclusions of these topics through the use of models and data analysis drawn from real world geologic settings.
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