Overview of the 2022-23 Academic Year for Science
Chelmsford Public Schools is committed to engaging and rigorous Science Curriculum. Over the last three years, we have undergone several revisions to assessments, pacing guides, syllabi, and pathways to transition to the 2016 MA STE Frameworks. In this process, a large focus on student-driven inquiry is occurring related to the following 8 core Science Practices:
- Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering)
- Developing and using models
- Planning and carrying out investigations
- Analyzing and interpreting data
- Using mathematics and computational thinking
- Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)
- Engaging in argument from evidence
- Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
General Description of Science at our Building Levels:
Grades K-5:
Students are engaged in the FOSS Complete Science System in the areas of Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth/Space Science to meet the demands of the 2016 MA STE Frameworks. For more information on FOSS, please visit their website, or login with Clever for your student’s access. Students in grade 5 will take the digital Grade 5 MCAS STE Assessment.
Grades 6-8:
Teachers worked this summer to develop new pacing guides and syllabi for each grade level that address the new frameworks. Work has begun to develop benchmark assessments across the district in grades 7 and 8 as well. Students in grade 8 will take the digital Grade 8 MCAS STE Assessment.
Grades 9-12:
Chelmsford High School offers several options for students to learn in a variety of Science Topics. Students have courses geared towards Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Science. Dual Enrollment options are currently available with Biotechnology and Chemistry through Middlesex Community College. AP course options are AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C, and AP Environmental Science.
