revised August 2019
12
(A) A central theme throughout the study of scientific investigation and reasoning; matter and
energy; force, motion, and energy; Earth and space; and organisms and environment is
active engagement in asking questions, creating a method to answer those questions,
answering those questions, communicating ideas, and exploring with scientific tools.
Scientific investigation and reasoning involves practicing safe procedures, asking
questions about the natural world, and seeking answers to those questions through simple
observations used in descriptive investigations.
(B) Within the physical environment, students expand their understanding of the properties of
objects such as temperature, shape, and flexibility then use those properties to compare,
classify, and then combine the objects to do something that they could not do before.
Students manipulate objects to demonstrate a change in motion and position.
(C) Within the natural environment, students will observe the properties of earth materials as
well as predictable patterns that occur on Earth and in the sky. The students understand
that those patterns are used to make choices in clothing, activities, and transportation.
(D) Within the living environment, students explore patterns, systems, and cycles by
investigating characteristics of organisms, life cycles, and interactions among all the
components within their habitat. Students examine how living organisms depend on each
other and on their environment.
(2) Science, as defined by the National Academy of Sciences, is the "use of evidence to construct
testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena, as well as the knowledge generated
through this process."
(3) Recurring themes are pervasive in sciences, mathematics, and technology. These ideas transcend
disciplinary boundaries and include patterns, cycles, systems, models, and change and constancy.
(4) The study of elementary science includes planning and safely implementing classroom and
outdoor investigations using scientific processes, including inquiry methods, analyzing
information, making informed decisions, and using tools to collect and record information, while
addressing the major concepts and vocabulary, in the context of physical, earth, and life sciences.
Districts are encouraged to facilitate classroom and outdoor investigations for at least 60% of
instructional time.
(5) Statements containing the word "including" reference content that must be mastered, while those
containing the phrase "such as" are intended as possible illustrative examples.
(b) Knowledge and skills.
(1) Scientific investigation and reasoning. The student conducts classroom and outdoor investigations
following home and school safety procedures. The student is expected to:
(A) identify, describe, and demonstrate safe practices as outlined in Texas Education Agency-
approved safety standards during classroom and outdoor investigations, including
wearing safety goggles or chemical splash goggles, as appropriate, washing hands, and
using materials appropriately; and
(B) identify and demonstrate how to use, conserve, and dispose of natural resources and
materials such as conserving water and reuse or recycling of paper, plastic, and metal.
(2) Scientific investigation and reasoning. The student develops abilities necessary to do scientific
inquiry in classroom and outdoor investigations. The student is expected to:
(A) ask questions about organisms, objects, and events during observations and
investigations;