Elementary Science
Philosophy
The Altoona Area School District's Elementary Science Program focuses on helping students develop basic scientific concepts, skills, and responsible attitudes for life-long living. The Elementary Science Program encourages students to question and explore their world.
The Elementary Science Program provides a variety of learning experiences that promote students' understanding of life science, earth and space science, physical science, technology, and the environment through active participation.
Students need to be provided with opportunities that explore varying interests and ability levels. Through the study of science, students should experience success while developing higher-order thinking skills and strategies.
The Science Program also provides students with an appreciation of the career opportunities and the people who make significant contributions to science. Technological advances made in science are also explored.
Goals
- Apply science process skills such as observation, inference, and prediction to solve problems.
- Understand the needs and life cycles of living things.
- Appreciate the environment.
- Comprehend concepts related to Earth's land, water, air, and weather systems.
- Grasp the principles of physical science, including energy and forces.
- Explore the solar system and the universe.
- Learn about the people who shaped science and the careers that use modern technology.