We are beginning our first unit of study on living organisms.  This begins with the study of the classification system biologists use called the Taxonomy.  We are learning how to classify objects and organisms based on physical characteristics.  This will lead into a study of the invertebrates.  The phylums that consist of 93% of all animals.  Please ask your student about the classification system and how we can tell how many characteristics an organism has in common with another organism based on how many levels they share.  See if they can tell you the taxonomy levels from broadest catagory to narrowest and vice versa.

An observation is a fact that you notice about something.  An inference is what you "think" about something you notice.  In science inferences are based on one (maybe two) observations and are quick judgements.  For example:  You notice a spot in the tub.  Possible inferences:  The tub is dirty.  There is a spider in the tub.  Somebody dropped the soap.  Good rule of thumb: If it is an opinion it MAYbe an inference.

In science we use the metric system.  This is not as familiar to the students as standard measurement.  When you have an opportunity please point out the opportunities your child has to use the metric system.  For example when you are at the store the items like soda are metric liters.  Many cans show both standard and metric measurements.  Car speedometers show km as well as miles.

Power point on the Scientific Method

Power point on Metric Measurement

Power point on variables

Power point on the life process for an organism to be considered living.

Explanation of the Taxonomy of Organisms and how it is used.