Course Outline

Learners in the early elementary years have a natural curiosity about the world around them. They explore the world with their senses. The primary- grade 3 science program is an inquiry-based, hands-on program that encourages learners to discover the world around them by manipulating materials, gathering evidence by making direct observations, and talking and writing about what they are learning.  Learners will conduct investigations by asking questions, making plans and predictions, gathering evidence and evaluating their own thinking and the thinking of others.

The focus of the primary - grade 3 science curriculum is to support the development of scientific inquiry. Learners in P-3 will develop proficiency in the concepts of scientific processes, allowing them to become increasingly independent as the level of investigation becomes more sophisticated. 

Learners will analyse daily and seasonal change in the environment

A close observation of the environment allows learners to become aware of changes; changes in physical factors, such as temperature, wind, or light, and changes in plants and animals. Learners will discover that changes often occur in cycles, including the relatively short cycle of day and night and the longer cycle of the seasons. Recognizing these patterns prepares learners to make predictions about how animals and plants adapt for seasonal change. This unit allows for data collection over time, preferably over the whole school year, as learners collect and record weather and seasonal observations

Learners will analyse interconnectiveness of living things and the environment

A study of living things provides an opportunity for learners to discover many different forms of life and biodiversity. Learners will investigate similarities and differences to develop an understanding of the general characteristics of living things. Learners will discover that all living things have needs; some of these needs are similar and some are unique. Learners should have opportunities to make first-hand observations of plants and animals. These observations will lead to grouping organisms based on similar characteristics, the beginnings of classification. Through investigations, learners will gain an awareness of the dynamic nature of life and the idea that all living things are interconnected. Learners will also explore the idea of stewardship of the earth and gain an appreciation of our shared responsibility for protecting living things and the environment.

Learners will construct a device in response to a problem

An investigation of materials and their properties will prepare learners to select appropriate materials for constructing a device to solve a problem. Examples of problems or tasks learners may solve include: design and create a device that can make a variety of sounds; design and create a container that can hold sand; design and create a container that can hold the most marbles; or design a house for the three little pigs.  An investigation of how the properties of materials can change will allow learners to explore how objects can be made from recycled or reused materials. Learners will employ problem solving skills as they construct their devices.

For materials in French click here