North Carolina Essential Standards 6-8 Science
Note on Numbering:
Physical Science (P) Earth Science (E) Life Science (L)
The North Carolina Science Essential Standards maintain the respect
for local control of each Local Education Authority (LEA) to design the
specific curricular and instructional strategies that best deliver the
content to their students.
Nonetheless, engaging students in
inquiry-based instruction is a critical way of developing conceptual
understanding of the science content that is vital for success in the
twenty-first century. The process of scientific inquiry, experimentation
and technological design should not be taught nor tested in isolation
of the core concepts drawn from physical science, earth science and life
science.
A seamless integration of science content, scientific inquiry,
experimentation and technological design will reinforce in students the
notion that "what" is known is inextricably tied to "how" it is known. A
well-planned science curriculum provides opportunities for inquiry,
experimentation and technological design.
Teachers, when teaching
science, should provide opportunities for students to engage in
"hands-on/minds-on" activities that are exemplars of scientific inquiry,
experimentation and technological design.
7th Grade