SCIENCE Standards of Learning Current learning objectives being taught will be highlighted in ORANGE.
Science Standards of Learning for Virginia Public Schools – Jan. 2010 Grade Two The second-grade standards continue to focus on using a broad range of science skills in understanding the natural world. Making detailed observations, drawing conclusions, and recognizing unusual or unexpected data are stressed as skills needed for using and validating information. Measurement in both English and metric units is stressed. The idea of living systems is introduced through habitats and the interdependence of living and nonliving things. The concept of change is explored in phases of matter, life cycles, weather patterns, and seasonal effects on plants and animals.
Scientific Investigation, Reasoning, and Logic 2.1 The student will demonstrate an understanding of scientific reasoning, logic, and the nature of science by planning and conducting investigations in which a) observations and predictions are made and questions are formed; b) observations are differentiated from personal interpretation; c) observations are repeated to ensure accuracy; d) two or more characteristics or properties are used to classify items; e) length, volume, mass, and temperature are measured in metric units and standard English units using the proper tools; f) time is measured using the proper tools; g) conditions that influence a change are identified and inferences are made; h) data are collected and recorded, and bar graphs are constructed using numbered axes; i) data are analyzed, and unexpected or unusual quantitative data are recognized; j) conclusions are drawn; k) observations and data are communicated; l) simple physical models are designed and constructed to clarify explanations and show relationships; and m) current applications are used to reinforce science concepts.
Force, Motion, and Energy 2.2 The student will investigate and understand that natural and artificial magnets have certain characteristics and attract specific types of metals. Key concepts include a) magnetism, iron, magnetic/nonmagnetic, poles, attract/repel; and b) important applications of magnetism.
Matter 2.3 The student will investigate and understand basic properties of solids, liquids, and gases. Key concepts include a) identification of distinguishing characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases; b) measurement of the mass and volume of solids and liquids; and c) changes in phases of matter with the addition or removal of energy.
Life Processes 2.4 The student will investigate and understand that plants and animals undergo a series of orderly changes as they mature and grow. Key concepts include : a) animal life cycles; and b) plant life cycles.
Living Systems 2.5 The student will investigate and understand that living things are part of a system. Key concepts include: a) living organisms are interdependent with their living and nonliving surroundings; b) an animal’s habitat includes adequate food, water, shelter or cover, and space; c) habitats change over time due to many influences; and d) fossils provide information about living systems that were on Earth years ago.
Interrelationships in Earth/Space Systems 2.6 The student will investigate and understand basic types, changes, and patterns of weather. Key concepts include: a) identification of common storms and other weather phenomena; b) the uses and importance of measuring, recording, and interpreting weather data; and c) the uses and importance of tracking weather data over time.
Earth Patterns, Cycles, and Change 2.7 The student will investigate and understand that weather and seasonal changes affect plants, animals, and their surroundings. Key concepts include : a) effects of weather and seasonal changes on the growth and behavior of living things; and b) weathering and erosion of land surfaces.
Earth Resources 2.8 The student will investigate and understand that plants produce oxygen and food, are a source of useful products, and provide benefits in nature. Key concepts include : a) important plant products are identified and classified; b) the availability of plant products affects the development of a geographic area; c) plants provide oxygen, homes, and food for many animals; and d) plants can help reduce erosion.