Science

Term 2: Science

In Science, students explored the foundations of scientific inquiry by learning about the scientific method and how scientists investigate questions about the world around them. A strong emphasis was placed on forming clear, testable questions and identifying independent and dependent variables when planning investigations.

Throughout the term, students applied the scientific method by conducting their own experiments. They practiced making predictions, recording observations, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions based on evidence. These hands-on investigations helped students strengthen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the scientific process.


Term 1: Science 

This term, students explored the fascinating world of Extreme Environments on Earth, engaging in inquiry-based learning, research, and creative expression. The unit was designed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific literacy while aligning with the BC Science curriculum.

Key Learning Highlights:

Understanding Extreme Environments

Students began by investigating what makes an environment “extreme.” Through videos, discussions, and guided inquiry, they explored various types of extreme environments such as:

  • Deserts
  • Tundras
  • Deep oceans
  • Volcanoes
  • Polar regions
  • High-altitude mountains
  • Rainforests

They examined the climatic conditions, geographical features, and unique challenges these environments present to both humans and wildlife.

Research Organizer

To build foundational knowledge, students completed a research organizer that helped them:

  • Identify key characteristics of different extreme environments
  • Understand the adaptations of plants and animals
  • Explore the impact of environmental conditions on human survival and exploration

This activity supported the development of research skills, note-taking, and synthesis of scientific information.

Creative Project: Exploring an Extreme Environment

Students demonstrated their understanding through a creative project and written report, choosing from seven engaging project options that catered to diverse learning styles and interests. Each project required students to select one extreme environment and explore:

  • Its location, climate, and geography
  • Adaptations of living organisms
  • Challenges for human survival or exploration
  • Relevant scientific concepts (ie: ecosystems, biodiversity, climate science)
Project Format Options:
  1. Survivor’s Guide to an Extreme Environment
    • Create a guide with survival strategies, environmental descriptions, and adaptation insights.
    • Format options included illustrated booklets, digital brochures, and presentations.
  2. Design a Creature Adapted to an Extreme Environment
    • Students invented fictional organisms with specialized adaptations.
    • Projects included diagrams, models, and written explanations of ecological interactions.
  3. Extreme Environment News Report
    • Mock news reports covered real or fictional events (ie: volcanic eruptions, polar expeditions).
    • Students explained scientific phenomena and their impacts on ecosystems and humans.
  4. Build a Biome Diorama
    • Constructed 3D models or digital representations of extreme biomes.
    • Included detailed reports on climate, species adaptations, and human challenges.
  5. Extreme Environment Travel Brochure
    • Designed brochures to attract tourists to extreme environments.
    • Included safety tips, scientific facts, and engaging visuals.
  6. Extreme Environment STEM Challenge
    • Designed and built prototype shelters or vehicles suited for survival in harsh conditions.
    • Documented design choices, testing processes, and scientific rationale.
  7. Compare Two Extreme Environments
    • Compared climates, adaptations, and human impacts across two environments.
    • Presented findings through Venn diagrams, reports, or multimedia presentations.

Curriculum Connections

Grade 6 Science Curriculum Connections:

  • Diversity of Life
    • Investigated how organisms adapt to survive in extreme environments.
    • Explored biodiversity and interdependence within ecosystems.
  • Extreme Environments
    • Defined and described various extreme environments on Earth.
    • Examined how environmental conditions affect living and non-living components.
  • Scientific Inquiry and Research Skills
    • Developed questions, conducted research, and organized findings.
    • Used scientific vocabulary and concepts to explain observations.
  • Human Impact and Sustainability
    • Discussed how humans interact with and impact extreme environments.
    • Considered sustainable practices and technological innovations for survival.

Grade 7 Science Curriculum Connections:

  • Ecosystems and Biomes
    • Explored the structure and function of ecosystems in extreme environments.
    • Analyzed energy flow, food webs, and ecological relationships.
  • Adaptations and Natural Selection
    • Investigated how organisms evolve traits to survive in harsh conditions.
    • Designed fictional creatures demonstrating adaptive features.
  • Earth and Environmental Science
    • Studied geological features such as volcanoes and polar ice caps.
    • Examined climate patterns and their effects on ecosystems and human activity.
  • Scientific Literacy and Communication
    • Presented findings through various formats (reports, models, presentations).
    • Practiced clear scientific writing and visual communication.