Academy Program → Science → About the Science Curriculum
Science at Sligo Creek ES
There are two components of the academy science program at Sligo Creek Elementary. The first is the science curriculum that is taught by each classroom teacher. This is the approved Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) science curriculum that is inquiry oriented and kit based (see above.) The second is an extension and enrichment component provided by a full time science coordinator, Dr. Charles Gale. Sligo Creek ES has a well-equipped science lab that Dr. Gale uses for his instruction. Studetnts in the Academy Program, K - 5, come to the science lab once a week for approximately 40 minutes.
Lessons relate to the current science unit (see table below) and center around inquiry-based explorations that focus on the features of a well-designed investigation that are supported by the MCPS science office. Science content includes some history of science, nature of science, habits of mind as related to science, mathematics, and technology. Working with data and using math are integral parts of most lessons.
Other aspects of science at Sligo Creek include a daily weather club, Family Science Nights, a collaborative partnership with the University of Maryland's Materials Research Science and Engineering Center and a collaboration with the Anacostia Watershed Society.
Science at MCPS
The Elementary Science Program in Montgomery County Public Schools is a leader in the national science education reform effort that is challenging the way in which science has traditionally been taught. The program focuses on student inquiry creating students that are lifelong learners and understand scientific methodology through experiencing scientific processes involved in investigation and experimentation.Features of the Program inquiry-based - Activities are designed to challenge students to use reasoning and problem-solving skills. During investigations, teachers provide guidance but avoid step-by-step directions whenever possible.
activity oriented - Direct observation and manipulation of materials and equipment are the bases for all instructional activities
depth-oriented - Selected topics are studied intensively and superficial discussion of a broad range of topics is avoided.
differentiated - The basic program is appropriate for all students. However, the nature of inquiry-based science provides accommodations for special needs and gifted and talented students.
relevant to experience - Units of instruction center on topics that have personal meaning to children. This helps children to understand the purpose for making science a part of our lives.
multicultural and gender equitable - Instructional activities are chosen to help children appreciate the contributions to science of minorities and females.
interdisciplinary - science is integrally related to other disciplines. Mathematics is used as a tool in data collection and analysis; communication of student observations, data, and conclusions is emphasized as a language arts as well as a science skill.
technologically focused - early experiences help children to understand the relationship between science and technology. Beyond learning about technology itself, children use computer technology to support data collection, analysis, and display, and communication.