Curriculum is what a child is taught in school—what they learn, how they learn it, and the materials teachers use to help them succeed.
The curriculum shows grade-level Science units and pacing by quarter, aligned with Virginia’s Standards of Learning.
Kindergarten students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL K.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
In this unit, students focus on how humans use their senses – sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste – to make observations about the characteristics and interactions of objects in the world. These objects have physical properties that can be observed and described (color; shape and form; texture and feel; and size and weight). Students learn that body structures (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin/hands) are associated
with each sense.
Standards Covered: K.5a-b, K.3-d
This unit focuses on developing a foundational understanding of light and shadows. Students will observe how light interacts with different objects to produce shadows and draw conclusions about the role of the sun and sunlight in heating objects.
Standards Covered: K. 8a-c
In this unit, students will explore patterns in nature, focusing on daily weather, seasonal changes, and day and night. Through short-term and long-term observations, students will learn to identify and describe how weather changes daily and how seasons follow a predictable pattern throughout the year. Students will develop an understanding of the natural rhythms that shape our environment and the behaviors of living things. Note: As seasonal change requires observation over months, some concepts/skills may not be mastered during this unit's approximately 10 days of core instruction.
Standards Covered: K.9a-c
In this unit, students embark on an exciting exploration of water as they are introduced to the fundamental properties of water and its crucial role in our daily lives. Students will discover the various uses of water, from drinking and cleaning to its presence in nature, and will learn that water can be found in many places, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. Students will also learn that water can exist in different phases – such as ice (solid), liquid water (liquid), and water vapor (gas). Additionally, they will observe how water flows downhill, helping them understand its behavior in the environment.
Standards Covered: K.4a-d
In this unit, students embark on an exciting exploration of water as they are introduced to the fundamental properties of water and its crucial role in our daily lives. Students will discover the various uses of water, from drinking and cleaning to its presence in nature, and will learn that water can be found in many places, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. Students will also learn that water can exist in different phases – such as ice (solid), liquid water (liquid), and water vapor (gas). Additionally, they will observe how water flows downhill, helping them understand its behavior in the environment.
Standards Covered: K.4a-d
In this unit, kindergarten students will explore the fundamental differences between living and nonliving things, learning to classify things based on these characteristics. They will understand that to be classified as a living thing, something must grow, respond to the environment, and reproduce (having offspring). The unit will highlight the basic needs of plants and animals, such as food (or light), water, air, shelter, and space, and how these needs are met in different ways. Students will also learn about the life cycles of plants and animals, recognizing that not all offspring may look or behave similarly to their parents at birth. Through this unit, students will develop a foundational understanding of living systems and the basic needs of living organisms to sustain life.
Standards Covered: K.6a-b, K.7a
In this unit, students embark on an exciting exploration of water as they are introduced to the fundamental properties of water and its crucial role in our daily lives. Students will discover the various uses of water, from drinking and cleaning to its presence in nature, and will learn that water can be found in many places, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. Students will also learn that water can exist in different phases – such as ice (solid), liquid water (liquid), and water vapor (gas). Additionally, they will observe how water flows downhill, helping them understand its behavior in the environment.
Standards Covered: K.4a-d
The 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning will be utilized for instruction this school year. The SOL Changes document gives a brief overview of instructional adjustments highlighting content that has been removed or added by unit. This document will be updated quarterly as unit guides are released. Additional information can be found on the VDOE website.
Standards Covered: K.10a-d
In this unit, Kindergarteners will be introduced to fundamental concepts related to forces, motion, and energy: the contact forces of pushes and pulls. Students will investigate and understand that pushes and pull can cause objects to move, change direction, and that the strength of these forces influences how much the motion changes. Finally, students will use their science and engineering process skills to compare the motion of objects after applying different pushes and pulls, predicting and testing the outcomes.
Standards Covered: K.2a-c
Grade 1 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 1.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
In this unit, students will explore the sun and its importance to life on Earth. Students will learn that the sun’s energy provides light and warmth for Earth. This builds on their knowledge from Kindergarten that light influences temperature on Earth’s surfaces. Students will explore the sun's apparent position in the sky throughout the day and the resulting temperature change.
Standards Covered: 1.6a-b
In this unit, students will investigate and understand changes in weather and seasons. They will explore how temperature, light, and precipitation vary over time and identifying patterns in daily weather. They will also discover how these weather changes impact plants, animals, and humans. Students will begin to identify repeating patterns in nature that provide valuable clues to cause-and-effect relationships (including seasonal changes). By the end of the unit, students will develop the skills to anticipate weather conditions and apply this concept in their daily life. Note: As seasonal change requires observation over months, some concepts/skills may not be mastered during the approximately 12 days of core instruction in this unit.
Standards Covered: 1.7a-c
In this unit, students will investigate and continue building a foundational understanding of energy and matter and their crucial roles in the survival of animals, including humans. Students will build upon their Kindergarten learning and further explore the key concept that animals need air, food, water, shelter and space (habitat) to meet their basic life needs. They will also explore the different physical characteristics of animals (body coverings, appendages, and movements) and classify animals based on these characteristics.
Standards Covered: 1.5a-c
In this unit, students will explore the essential role of energy and matter in the survival of plants. Students will build upon their Kindergarten and previous learning this year to investigate how plants meet their basic needs for nutrients, air, water, light, and space, and learn about the specific functions of plant structures. Students will continue to set the stage for future study of adaptations in grade 3 by observing and classifying plants based on their unique characteristics and understanding how these traits help plants thrive in different environments.
Standards Covered: 1.4a-c
In this unit, students will explore the essential role of energy and matter in the survival of plants. Students will build upon their Kindergarten and previous learning this year to investigate how plants meet their basic needs for nutrients, air, water, light, and space, and learn about the specific functions of plant structures. Students will continue to set the stage for future study of adaptations in grade 3 by observing and classifying plants based on their unique characteristics and understanding how these traits help plants thrive in different environments.
Standards Covered: 1.4a-c
In this unit, students will explore Earth’s natural resources and why it is essential to conserve them. They will learn that most natural resources are limited and investigate how human actions affect these resources. While building on their Kindergarten experience with practical conservation strategies of reducing, reusing, and recycling, students will deepen their understanding of sustainability. By the end of the unit, they will recognize the importance of caring for Earth's resources today to ensure their availability for future generations.
Standards Covered: 1.8a-c
In this unit, students will explore physical properties and how different materials can be described and classified. Students will learn that objects are made from one or more materials, each with unique properties that often serve a specific purpose in how the object is used or functions. Students will also discover that changing the size of a material does not alter most physical properties. Finally, students will investigate how different materials interact with light, building foundational knowledge supporting their exploration in grade 5 of how matter influences light.
Standards Covered: 1.3a-c
In this unit, students will explore the world of motion and sound. Students will build upon their exploration of pushes and pulls in Kindergarten to investigate how forces between objects can cause changes in motion. Students will identify and describe various types of movement: straight, circular, spinning, and back-and-forth. Students will also begin to develop an understanding that objects moving back-and-forth (vibrations) can
produce sound.
Standards Covered: 1.2a-b
Grade 2 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 2.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit focuses on types of weather and weather patterns. Students will measure and record current weather data and will learn the purpose of tracking weather data over time. Students first observed weather in kindergarten; in grade 1, they learned that the sun is the source of energy on Earth and that precipitation affects people and other living things. In this unit, students will make more concrete connections between weather conditions and specific types of precipitation and storms.
Standards Covered: 2.6a-c
In this unit, students will explore the relationship between weather patterns, seasonal changes, and their impact on our surroundings. Students will investigate how weather and seasonal changes impact the growth and behavior of living things and learn about the effects of wind and weather on Earth’s surface. Students will distinguish between rapid changes, such as flooding, and gradual changes, like beach erosion, and will gain an understanding of how our environment transforms constantly.
Note: As seasonal change requires observation over months, some concepts/skills will not be mastered during the approx. 13 days of core instruction in this unit.
Standards Covered: 2.7a-c
In this unit, students will explore the different roles that plants play within ecosystems. Students will understand that plants are essential natural resources, and that the availability of plant products influences the development of geographic areas. They will also discover that plants provide oxygen, shelter, and nutrients for other living things. Additionally, students will examine how plants help reduce the effects of wind and water, protecting the environment around them.
Standards Covered: 2.8a-c
In previous grade levels, students focused on differentiating between living and nonliving things. In this unit, students will explore the concept of systems by examining how living organisms interact with both living and nonliving elements in their environment. Students will gain a deeper understanding of interconnectedness within ecosystems, recognizing that these interactions are crucial for meeting the basic life needs of organisms. Students will think critically about the role of each component within a system and consider how changes to the environment – particularly due to human influence – can affect living organisms.
Standards Covered: 2.5a-c
This unit is the culmination of students’ previous exploration of the changes living things undergo. In this unit, students will investigate each stage of animal and plant life cycles through direct observation and the use of models. Students will both analyze models and create them as they identify and describe the distinct stages of birth, growth, reproduction, and death in all living things.
Standards Covered: 2.4a-b
In this unit, students will investigate the three main types of matter: solids, liquids, and gases as they build on their prior knowledge of basic physical properties. Students will investigate how matter has mass and occupies space, and how heating and cooling can cause matter to change from one phase to another. This unit develops foundational knowledge and understanding of real-world phenomena that are critical for the grades 3 and 5 units on matter. Please note: This unit has a required performance-based assessment (PBA), new in SY 2025-26.
Standards Covered: 2.3a-c
Assessment Window: 03/23 - 03/27/26
In this unit, students build on their knowledge of direct, contact forces by exploring the indirect, noncontact forces of gravity and magnetism. Students will explore how direct contact forces, such as contact pushes and pulls, can cause objects to move, including changing their direction and speed. Students will also observe and draw conclusions about indirect, noncontact forces and their influence on objects from a distance. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how force and motion impact our everyday lives by examining real-life applications of these forces.
Standards Covered: 2.2
Grade 3 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 3.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit builds on students’ study of matter in grade 2 and prepares them for further study in grade 5 by investigating how various substances interact with water. Students will learn that water dissolves more substances than any other liquid and that there are some solids that water cannot dissolve. They will conclude that substances that dissolve in water form a solution, and while the dissolved substance cannot be seen, it is still present.
Standards Covered:3.3a-b
In this unit, students build on their previous study of Earth’s water by investigating the significance of water to all life on Earth. Students are introduced to the idea that water is essential to Earth's processes and that all living things need water to survive. Students explore the processes that make up the water cycle and end the unit with an understanding of its profound impact on Earth’s ecosystems.
Standards Covered: 3.7a-c
In this unit, students explore ecosystems in-depth, highlighting the diversity of both living and nonliving components. Students investigate aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, understanding how these environments support a wide variety of life. Students learn about the relationships among organisms and how they interact to meet their life needs, using basic food chains to explain how ecosystems survive. Ultimately, students will be able to identify and explain relationships within ecosystems and how a change in one relationship or organism may affect the rest of the ecosystem.
Standards Covered:3.5a-b
In this unit, students build on their previous study of plants and animals to investigate how populations may change gradually over thousands to millions of years in response to environmental changes. These physical and behavioral changes, known as adaptations, enable organisms to meet their needs and respond to changes in their environment. Students will also learn how fossils can provide evidence about ancient organisms and their environments, supporting theories of how plants and animals have adapted.
Standards Covered: 3.4a-c
Assessment Window: 01/26 - 01/30/26
In this unit, students build on their previous study of plants and animals to investigate how populations may change gradually over thousands to millions of years in response to environmental changes. These physical and behavioral changes, known as adaptations, enable organisms to meet their needs and respond to changes in their environment. Students will also learn how fossils can provide evidence about ancient organisms and their environments, supporting theories of how plants and animals have adapted.
Standards Covered: 3.4a-c
Assessment Window: 01/26 - 01/30/26
In this unit, students will explore soil, often misunderstood to be mere ‘dirt.’ Students will learn that soil is a complex mixture of organic (living) and inorganic (nonliving) materials, which play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Through hands-on investigations, students will discover how soil supports plant growth by providing essential nutrients and stability. Students will also understand the critical role soil plays in the survival of other organisms, including humans, who rely on it for resources and/or habitats.
Standards Covered: 3.6a-b
In this unit, students build upon their understanding of the interdependence of organisms within their living and nonliving surroundings. Through investigations and research, students will learn that humans affect the quality of air, water, and habitats and both human influence and natural events impact the conservation of water and soil. By the end of the unit, students will understand how human behaviors and natural events can
negatively impact organisms and their habitats.
Standards Covered: 3.8
In this unit, students build upon their understanding of how forces can cause changes in motion and are introduced to the world of machines. Students will explore how multiple forces can act on an object, investigating how the net force determines its movement. Students will also explore how simple machines, such as levers and pulleys, make work easier in everyday life. They’ll build upon this exploration by observing the applications of compound machines and how they further simplify work. By the end of this unit, students will have a stronger foundational understanding of force and motion to support their culminating study in grade 5.
Standards Covered: 3.2a-c
Grade 4 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 4.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit is foundational to the grade 4 year, which focuses on the theme “Our Place in the Solar System.” Our solar system is a vast place, and in this unit, students learn where Earth fits within it. Students investigate the solar system as a set of interrelated and interdependent elements connected through the flow of matter and energy. Students conclude that the characteristics of these elements, such as the planets, are determined by their composition, primarily due to their location within the solar system.
Standards Covered: 4.5a-c
Assessment Window: 9/15 - 9/19/25
This unit builds upon the previous unit in which students were introduced to our sun and the eight plants that revolve around it. The relationships between the Earth, moon, and sun leads to an understanding of seasons, tides, and phases of the moon. This unit focuses on an understanding of the relationships in the Earth, moon, and sun system. By the end of the unit students will understand the motions of this system, the results of our unique position in it, and how movements in the system affect important aspects of our daily lives.
Standards Covered: 4.6a-d
Assessment Window: 10/27 - 10/31/25
In this unit, students will explore the relationship between weather conditions and ecosystems. Students will learn how weather measurements are valuable data points for making accurate weather predictions. Students will investigate how both common and extreme weather events, like thunderstorms and hurricanes, can significantly affect ecosystems and influence the survival of species. Finally, students will examine long-term weather trends to understand how these patterns determine the climate of a region and shape local ecosystems.
Standards Covered: 4.4a-c
Assessment Window: 12/08 - 12/12/25
In this unit, students will explore the diverse processes and structures that enable plants and animals to carry out essential life functions such as obtaining energy and reproducing. Building on knowledge from grades K-3, students will delve deeper into interrelationships between how the sun’s energy supports all life on Earth through the processes of photosynthesis and how animals obtain energy from other organisms (including plants). Students will also investigate the unique structures and behaviors that distinguish plants from animals and understand the critical role these structures play in survival and reproduction.
Standards Covered: 4.2a-c
Assessment Window: 02/02 - 02/13/26
In this unit, students will explore the diverse processes and structures that enable plants and animals to carry out essential life functions such as obtaining energy and reproducing. Building on knowledge from grades K-3, students will delve deeper into interrelationships between how the sun’s energy supports all life on Earth through the processes of photosynthesis and how animals obtain energy from other organisms (including plants). Students will also investigate the unique structures and behaviors that distinguish plants from animals and understand the critical role these structures play in survival and reproduction.
Standards Covered: 4.2a-c
Assessment Window: 02/02 - 02/13/26
In this unit, students examine how living and nonliving components interact within ecosystems to transfer matter and energy. While building on prior knowledge of food chains, students investigate food webs to understand energy flow across populations, communities, and ecosystems. Students then explore niches to see how each organism’s role supports life processes and learn how scientists classify organisms to reveal
relationships and roles, connecting classification with identification.
Standards Covered: 4.3a-d
Assessment Window: 03/02 - 03/13/26
Standards Covered: 4.7a-c
Assessment Window: 04/13 - 04/24/26
In this unit, students will explore the ocean system that covers most of Earth’s surface. They will examine the features and formations of the ocean floor and learn about the physical properties and movements of ocean water, such as currents, waves, and tides. Students will also investigate how these factors shape the ocean’s dynamic nature. Finally, students will explore interactions among ocean organisms and the complex ecosystems they form, emphasizing the importance of conserving and protecting this vital resource.
Standards Covered: 4.7a-c
Assessment Window: 04/13 - 04/24/26
In this unit, students will explore the diverse natural resources of Virginia, gaining an understanding of their significance both to their ecosystems and to humans. Virginia’s natural resources include: watersheds and water; plants and animals; minerals, rocks, and ores; and forests, soil, and land. As they explore these resources, students will focus particularly on Virginia’s watersheds, investigating and identifying the real-world significance of the concept that “we all live downstream,” deepening their appreciation for the importance of conserving and protecting natural resources.
Standards Covered: 4.8a-d
Assessment Window: 05/11 - 05/15/26
This guide provides critical resources and clear guidance to support teachers and support staff as they plan within their CLTs to prepare students for the Spring SOL Test administration. It offers detailed insights and resources that provide high-yield content and skill reviews, enabling teachers to tailor limited instructional time effectively. By addressing knowledge gaps and reinforcing key concepts we support our shared focus of meeting the Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) set forth as a part of our strategic plan.
Grade 5 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 5.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit is foundational to the grade 5 year, which focuses on the theme “Transforming Energy and Matter.” In this unit, students are introduced to the concept that energy cannot be created or destroyed and explore four types of energy: thermal (heat), radiant (light), mechanical (motion and sound), and electrical (including magnetic fields). Students investigate the idea that energy occurs in different forms, is transferred from place to place by moving objects, and can change from one form to another through transformation.
Standards Covered: 5.2a-d
Assessment Window: 9/8 - 9/12/25
This unit is foundational to the grade 5 year, which focuses on the theme “Transforming Energy and Matter.” In this unit, students will come to understand that matter consists of atoms that have different properties, and these properties determine the interactions that can occur between different atoms. Therefore, different substances with different properties are best suited for different uses. Matter can change due to heating, cooling, and mixing, resulting in matter maintaining or losing some of its original characteristics to become classified as mixtures and/or solutions.
Standards Covered: 5.7a-c
Assessment Window: 10/6 - 10/10/25
This unit continues students’ study of forms of energy and how they transfer and transform. In this unit, students will explore moving objects, beginning with the concept that moving objects possess kinetic energy (the energy of motion). They will learn that motion is characterized by both the direction and speed of an object, and how changes in motion are influenced by the net force acting on an object and its mass. Students will investigate the effect of collisions, the role of friction, and its importance to everyday life. These fundamental principles of motion, known as Newton’s Laws, will serve as a foundation for further exploration and learning in middle and high school.
Standards Covered: 5.3a-e
Assessment Window: 10/27 - 10/31/25
This unit focuses on Earth's dynamic and ever-changing nature, driven by its internal thermal energy. In this unit, students explore how this internal energy propels movement of tectonic plates, causing events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of landforms. Students investigate the rock cycle, identifying how rocks transform into various types while Earth’s surface constantly changes through the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition. Finally, students uncover evidence of continuous change through patterns in rock formations and fossils.
Standards Covered: 5.8a-e
Assessment Window: 12/8 - 12/12/25
This unit focuses on how energy can move from one location to another through electrical circuits and can be transformed into other forms of energy. Students will investigate the properties of different materials to understand that electricity flows easily through conductors but not insulators and learn about how closed circuits to allow electricity to flow. Students will also investigate how static electricity can be generated by rubbing certain materials together and how a current flowing through a wire can create a magnetic field, drawing on their grade 2 exploration of magnets.
Standards Covered: 5.4a-e
Assessment Window: 01/19 - 01/23/26
This unit focuses on sound as mechanical energy and how it is transmitted and utilized through different matter. While building on prior knowledge and exploration of energy and matter, students will explore how sound is produced by vibrations. Students will also explore and identify the relationship between the frequency of vibrations, pitch, and states of matter. Through the engineering design process and real-world application, students will discover the diverse uses of sound waves in everyday life and the vital role sound plays in communication, technology, and nature.
Standards Covered: 5.5a-d
Assessment Window: 02/16 - 02/27/26
This unit focuses on the complexities of visible light, a form of radiant energy. Students will build on prior knowledge of how light interacts with different materials and explore how matter influences the path of light as they investigate its characteristics. Students will develop an understanding that light moves in transverse waves and is part of the visible spectrum, which includes different wavelengths. Students will identify the many ways in which radiant energy can be transformed into thermal, mechanical, and electrical energy.
Standards Covered: 5.6a-d
Assessment Window: 03/16 - 03/27/26
This unit focuses on how energy and matter are used by humans as resources and how human actions and advances in technology affect the availability, use, and impacts of energy and matter as resources. Students will explore the concept of renewable and nonrenewable resources, understanding the critical differences between them and will learn that most of the energy used in the United States comes from nonrenewable sources. As students consider what this means for the future, they will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of energy conservation.
Standards Covered: 5.9a-c
Assessment Window: 04/20 -04/24/26
This unit focuses on how energy and matter are used by humans as resources and how human actions and advances in technology affect the availability, use, and impacts of energy and matter as resources. Students will explore the concept of renewable and nonrenewable resources, understanding the critical differences between them and will learn that most of the energy used in the United States comes from nonrenewable sources. As students consider what this means for the future, they will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of energy conservation.
Standards Covered: 5.9a-c
Assessment Window: 04/20 -04/24/26
This guide provides critical resources and clear guidance to support teachers and support staff as they plan within their CLTs to prepare students for the Spring SOL Test administration. It offers detailed insights and resources that provide high-yield content and skill reviews, enabling teachers to tailor limited instructional time effectively. By addressing knowledge gaps and reinforcing key concepts we support our shared focus of meeting the Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) set forth as a part of our strategic plan.
Grade 6 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 6.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
Our Earth is in just the right spot in the solar system to support life. The solar system is made up of many different objects—like planets, moons, and asteroids—each with its own special features. These features are shaped by what the object is made of and the forces acting on it. One of the most important forces is gravity, which keeps the planets moving in orbits around the Sun and helps everything stay connected. Thanks to new technology, scientists are always learning more about the solar system, showing us that it’s full of surprises and constantly changing.
Standards Covered: 6.2a-d
Assessment Window: 09/15 - 09/19/25
Earth’s position in the solar system resulted in characteristics that support life. It’s unique properties, orientation within the solar system, tilt, rotation, and revolution create the hospitable planet we will on.
Standards Covered: 6.3a – 6.3e
Assessment Window: 10/27 - 10/31/25
The major source of energy on Earth is solar radiation.
Standards Covered: 6.4a – 6.4d
Assessment Window: 11/24 - 11/28/25
This unit introduces students to the foundational concepts of atomic structure and elemental composition. Students will explore how atoms, consisting of electrons, protons, and neutrons, form the building blocks of matter and how atoms of different elements have unique properties. The unit will cover the use of chemical symbols and formulas to represent elements and compounds and will explain how atoms bond to create new substances. Additionally, students will learn to model chemical changes with chemical equations and
understand the prevalence of certain elements in the Earth’s crust, living organisms, oceans, and atmosphere.
Standards Covered: 6.5a – 6.5g
Assessment Window: 01/19 - 01/23/26
This unit explores the unique properties of water and its essential role in Earth’s processes. Students will investigate how water shapes landscapes through weathering and erosion and examine the impact of human activities on water quality, availability, and distribution. Through hands-on activities and discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of water’s critical importance to our planet.
Standards Covered: 6.6a – 6.6f
Assessment Window: 02/16 - 02/27/26
This unit delves into the dynamic nature of Earth’s atmosphere, exploring how various factors like pressure, temperature, and energy transfers influence weather patterns and conditions. Students will learn how atmospheric models are used to predict weather and understand the impact of thermal energy on molecular movement and phase changes. In this unit, students will gain insights into the complex systems that drive our planet’s weather.
Standards Covered: 6.7a – 6.7f
Assessment Window: 03/23 - 04/10/26
In this unit, students will explore local watersheds, understand the importance of wetlands and estuaries, and assess factors affecting water quality. They will also evaluate human impacts and develop strategies to protect these vital ecosystems. Watershed systems
are dynamic and complex, and interactions within these systems may influence the overall health of the watershed.
Standards Covered: 6.8a – 6.8d
Assessment Window: 5/4 - 5/8/26
In this unit, students will learn how human activities like population growth and resource use affect Earth's systems. They will differentiate between renewable and nonrenewable resources and understand the roles of conservation professionals. Additionally, students will explore the impact of pollution on health, compare energy sources, and analyze how personal choices influence waste and environmental health.
Standards Covered: 6.9a – 6.9f
Assessment Window: 6/8 - 6/12/26
Grade 7 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 7.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
All living things are composed of cells; these cells have different structures and organelles that support life processes. Cell theory describes the current understanding of cells. Theories and laws in science are used by scientists to describe natural phenomena. Theories and law are equal in terms of scientific validity.
Standards Covered: LS.2a-c
Assessment Window: 09/15-09/19/25
This unit explores the essential life processes and cellular organization, emphasizing the movement of materials via diffusion and osmosis, and the hierarchical structure of organisms from atoms to ecosystems. It highlights the universality of life functions and the specialized cellular systems that support growth, reproduction, and response in both unicellular and multicellular organisms.
Standards Covered: LS.2e, LS.2a LS.3b
Assessment Window: 10/13 – 10/17/25
This unit explores the fundamental processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, which are essential for the flow of energy through living systems. It delves into how energy from the sun is harnessed by producers to create glucose, forming the basis of food webs, and how this energy is utilized and transformed within cells, highlighting the conservation of matter and energy in biological systems.
Standards Covered: LS.4a-b
Assessment Window: 11/10–11/14/25
This unit explores the fundamental processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, which are essential for the flow of energy through living systems. It delves into how energy from the sun is harnessed by producers to create glucose, forming the basis of food webs, and how this energy is utilized and transformed within cells, highlighting the conservation of matter and energy in biological systems.
Standards Covered: LS.4a-b
Assessment Window: 11/10 – 11/14/25
Reproduction is the vital biological process through which organisms pass on genetic information to their offspring, ensuring the continuity and diversity of life. This unit explores the mechanisms of cell division and genetic transfer, including mitosis for growth and repair, and meiosis for creating varied reproductive cells, underpinning the stability and evolution of species.
Standards Covered: LS.2d, LS.10b
Assessment Window: 12/08 - 12/12/25
DNA’s double helix structure is intricately connected to its function of coding for proteins, which are crucial for building and maintaining life. This unit delves into the relationship between DNA, genes, and chromosomes, the role of proteins in cellular functions, and the use of Punnett squares to predict genetic inheritance, emphasizing the distinction between inherited genetic traits and acquired characteristics.
Standards Covered: LS.10a, LS.10c
Assessment Window: 1/12 - 1/16/26
In this unit, students will explore the concept of genetic stability across generations, understanding that genetic variation is maintained in a population barring factors like mutations and natural selection. They will examine how environmental changes and genetic mutations influence organism survival, leading to adaptations that contribute to the diversity of life and drive evolutionary processes.
Standards Covered: LS.11a, LS.11b, LS.11c
Assessment Window: 02/09 - 02/20/26
In this unit, students will explore the concept of genetic stability across generations, understanding that genetic variation is maintained in a population barring factors like mutations and natural selection. They will examine how environmental changes and genetic mutations influence organism survival, leading to adaptations that contribute to the diversity of life and drive evolutionary processes.
Standards Covered: LS.11a, LS.11b, LS.11c
Assessment Window: 2/9 - 2/20/26
In this unit, students will delve into the world of biological classification, learning how scientists use taxonomy to systematically name, organize, and determine relationships among species. They will discover that classification is based on various factors, from cellular structures to feeding methods, and understand that classifications can change with new discoveries and may differ when comparing physical traits to genetic data.
Standards Covered: LS.3c
Assessment Window: 3/9 - 3/20/26
This unit will guide students through the intricate web of interactions within ecosystems, emphasizing the roles of Earth’s various spheres and the impact of Earth’s axial tilt and orbit on climate. They will learn about the dynamic nature of ecosystems, how they can vary in size and type, and the adaptations organisms have developed to thrive within these systems.
Standards Covered: LS.7a, LS.7b
Assessment Window: 3/23- 4/10/26
In this unit, students will investigate the continuous flow of matter and energy through living systems, emphasizing the cycling of key elements and compounds between biotic and abiotic factors. They’ll learn about the critical roles of producers, consumers, and
decomposers in ecosystems, and how human actions can impact these delicate cycles and the availability of resources.
Standards Covered: LS.5a, LS.5b, LS.5c
Assessment Window: 4/27 - 5/01/26
In this unit, students will learn about the interconnectedness of life processes in ecosystems, focusing on the flow of energy and the cycling of matter. They will explore predator-prey dynamics, social behaviors in animals, the concept of interdependent populations within communities, and the impact of environmental factors on species survival. Additionally, the unit will cover symbiotic relationships and the importance of an organism’s niche in its habitat.
Standards Covered: LS.6a - LS.6d
Assessment Window: 5/18 - 5/22/26
Standards Covered: LS.8a - LS.8c, L.S.9a-L.S.9c
Assessment Window: 6/8 - 6/12/26
Grade 8 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL requires the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL 8.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
In this unit, students focus on understanding that all matter is composed of particles (atoms), which are in constant motion. Substances have unique, identifiable chemical and physical properties that affect how they behave. These characteristics can be used to identify an unknown substance by comparing its characteristics to a known substance through investigations. Atoms are composed of subatomic particles, each with its own location and characteristics. Matter exists as different substances that can be utilized based on their properties.
Standards Covered: PS.2c, 3a
Assessment Window: 9/8 - 9/12/25
Atoms are composed of subatomic particles, each with its own location and characteristics. Atomic structure and properties are reflected in the periodic table.
Standards Covered: PS.2a, PS.3b
Assessment Window: 10/6 - 10/10/25
The periodic table is a foundational organizational tool that outlines knowledge about matter in the discipline of chemistry. Memorizing information is not nearly as important as being able to use the tool to understand the interactions and nature of the elements that make up the natural world.
Standards Covered: PS.2b, PS.4a
Assessment Window: 11/3 - 11/7/25
The periodic table is a foundational organizational tool that outlines knowledge about matter in the discipline of chemistry. Memorizing information is not nearly as important as being able to use the tool to understand the interactions and nature of the elements that make up the natural world.
Standards Covered: PS.2b, PS.4a
Assessment Window: 11/3 - 11/7/25
Energy is a quantifiable property of a system that depends on the motion and interactions of matter and radiation within that system. That there is a single quantity called energy is due to the fact that a system’s total energy is conserved, even as, within the system, energy is continually transferred from one object to another between various forms.
Standards Covered: PS.3b, PS.3c, PS.3d
Assessment Window: 12/15 - 12/19/25
Energy is a quantifiable property of a system that depends on the motion and interactions of matter and radiation within that system. That there is a single quantity called energy is because a system’s total energy is conserved, even as, within the system, energy is continually transferred from one object to another between various forms.
Standards Covered: PS.5a, PS.5b, PS.5c
Assessment Window: 1/19 - 1/23/26
In this unit, students will explore the fundamental concepts of how forces influence the movement of objects. They will compare object positions, force directions, and motions using a chosen reference frame and units of size. Students will learn that forces can cause objects to start moving, stop, change speed, or change direction. Additionally, they will delve into Newton’s laws of motion, which describe the relationships between a body and the forces acting upon it, and how these laws apply to everyday objects.
Standards Covered: PS.8a, PS.8b
Assessment Window: 2/16 - 2/27/26
In this unit, students will explore different types of waves and their characteristics, including how they transfer energy and interact with materials. They will investigate sound waves, model longitudinal and transverse waves, and learn about wave behaviors like reflection, refraction, and diffraction. Additionally, students will examine the technological applications of waves and how they function.
Standards Covered: PS.6a - PS.6d
Assessment Window: 3/9 - 3/20/26
In this unit students will learn that all electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light and exhibit the behavior and properties of waves. Due to the amazing range of frequencies and wavelengths, diffraction and reflection vary greatly.
Standards Covered: PS.7a, PS.7b
Assessment Window: 4/13 - 04/24/26
In this unit students will learn that all electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light and exhibit the behavior and properties of waves. Due to the amazing range of frequencies and wavelengths, diffraction and reflection vary greatly.
Standards Covered: PS.7a, PS.7b
Electricity is a form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles (such as electrons or protons), either statically as an accumulation of charge or dynamically as a current. In the majority of applications, it is the electron that is in motion to transfer charge and thus create a flow of electrical current. Changing electric fields are the cause of magnetic fields and changing magnetic fields can cause electrical charge to move .
Standards Covered: PS.9a - PS.9f
Assessment Window: 5/4 - 5/8/26
Biology 1 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL BIO.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
Organisms are complex systems that require energy and materials to support biochemical processes that maintain metabolism. Students learn how the physical and chemical properties of water contribute to metabolism, components of living cells, macromolecules and their functions, and the role enzymes play for living things.
Standards Covered: BIO.2a-c
Assessment Window: 9/15-9/19/25
All living things are composed of cells. Although there are many different types of cells in terms of size, structure, and function, all cells have certain characteristics in common. The cell theory encapsulated the current understanding of the cell. Both theory and laws describe nature phenomena and are equal in terms of scientific validity.
Standards Covered: BIO.3a, BIO.3b, BIO3d
Assessment Window: 10/13 - 10/17/25
In this unit, students learn about how biological systems utilize energy and matter to maintain organization, growth, and reproduction. They will explore the process of photosynthesis, understanding how it converts light energy into stored chemical energy. Students will also delve into the interconnected processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, discovering how living organisms derive energy from sugar and oxygen to sustain life.
Standards Covered: BIO.2e
Assessment Window: 11/03-11/07/25
This unit explores the intricate structure and function of DNA, emphasizing its role in genetic information transfer and protein production. Students will compare various DNA models, understand the significance of DNA replication in cell division, and delve into the processes of transcription and translation in protein synthesis. This unit also covers synthetic biology, where students will evaluate genetic engineering tools and debate the ethical implications of altering genomes.
Standards Covered: BIO.2d, BIO.3c, BIO.5a, BIO.5b, BIO.5e
Assessment Window: 12/01 - 12/05/25
This unit on cell growth, division, and specialization explores the essential processes that sustain life. Students will model and describe the stages of the cell cycle and mitosis, emphasizing the critical role of DNA replication in cell division. They will investigate how cell specialization supports the life processes of both unicellular and multicellular organisms, demonstrating how a cell’s structure is intricately linked to its function. Additionally, the unit will cover meiosis, highlighting its importance in sexual reproduction and genetic diversity, and comparing it to mitosis to understand the conditions necessary for each process.
Standards Covered: BIO.3c, BIO.3e, BIO.5d
Assessment Window: 01/12 - 01/16/26
This unit on genetics and heredity introduces Mendelian and non-Mendelian genetics. Students will learn how genotypes determine phenotypes, use Punnett squares for genetic predictions, and understand the role of probability in genetic variation. The unit also covers the basics of DNA structure, reproduction, and the importance of genetic diversity.
Standards Covered: BIO.5c
Assessment Window: 02/09 - 02/20/26
This unit on genetics and heredity introduces Mendelian and non-Mendelian genetics. Students will learn how genotypes determine phenotypes, use Punnett squares for genetic predictions, and understand the role of probability in genetic variation. The unit also covers the basics of DNA structure, reproduction, and the importance of genetic diversity.
Standards Covered: BIO.5c
Assessment Window: 02/09 - 02/20/26
This unit on evolution covers several key concepts. Students will explore the fossil record to understand the history of life on Earth and the role of DNA in tracing evolutionary changes. They will examine genetic variation within populations, discussing how mutations, gene flow, and reproductive strategies contribute to diversity. The unit also delves into natural selection, explaining how it drives changes in gene frequency and leads to adaptations. Finally, students will evaluate evidence for biological evolution from multiple scientific disciplines, comparing gradual changes with punctuated equilibrium and understanding the impact of environmental pressures on species survival.
Standards Covered: BIO.7a-BIO.7d
Assessment Window: 03/09 - 03/20/26
This unit explores the classification of organisms based on structural, biochemical, and embryological similarities and differences. Students will learn about binomial nomenclature, the hierarchical organization of life, and the use of cladograms to infer evolutionary relationships. The unit also covers the three domains (Archaea, Bacteria, Eukarya) and six kingdoms (archaebacteria, eubacteria, protista, fungi, plantae, animalia), emphasizing the diversity and commonalities among living organisms. Additionally, students will analyze fossil records to understand the history of life on Earth and the evolutionary connections between extinct and extant species.
Standards Covered: BIO.6a-BIO.6f
Assessment Window: 03/23 - 04/10/26
This unit on bacteria and viruses covers the fundamental differences between these two types of microorganisms, including their structures, methods or reproduction, and impacts on human health. Students will explore how viruses infect host organisms, the role of bacteria in ecosystems, and the significance of germ theory in understanding disease transmission and the development of modern health practices. This unit also emphasizes the importance of vaccines and antibiotics in preventing and treating diseases.
Standards Covered: BIO.4a - BIO.4e
Assessment Window: 04/20 - 04/24/26
In this unit, students explore the interactions between organisms and their environments, focusing on population dynamics, energy flow, and matter cycling within ecosystems. Students will learn about the factors affecting carrying capacity, the roles of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in carbon cycling, and the processes of ecological succession. Additionally, the unit addressed human impacts on ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices to mitigate negative effects on the environment.
Standards Covered: BIO.8a-BIO.8d
Assessment Window: 05/18- 05/22/26
Chemistry 1 students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL CH.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit will deepen understanding of atomic components, radioactivity, and the impact of changing these components. It will also explore the electron behavior and the Quantum-mechanical model, our current representation of atoms.
Standards Covered: CH.2a, CH2.b, CH.2d, CH.2e
This unit will deepen understanding of the periodic table, how it is organized, and the different trends (atomic radius, electronegativity, ionization energy, and the shielding effect) present on the table. It will also explore an element's electron configuration and how those configurations help predict bonding.
Standards Covered: CH.2c-d
This unit will explore the fundamental concepts of chemical bonding, including the formation of covalent and ionic bonds. It will also investigate the significance of polar and non-polar bonds, molecular geometry prediction, and the role of key elements like carbon in biological systems.
Standards Covered: CH.3a-b, CH.3d-e
This unit will explore the fundamental concepts of chemical bonding, including the formation of covalent and ionic bonds. It will also investigate the significance of polar and non-polar bonds, molecular geometry prediction, and the role of key elements like carbon in biological systems.
Standards Covered: CH.3a-b, CH.3d-e
In this unit, students will explore the conservation of mass by writing and balancing chemical equations. Students will investigate to classify reaction types as one of six types and use that knowledge of reaction types to predict the products of single and double replacement reactions.
Standards Covered: CH.3c, CH.3f
In this unit, students will use Avogadro’s principle to understand the mole and perform mole conversions. Students will also determine the percent composition and empirical and molecular formula of a substance. This unit provides the foundational information required for the next unit, Stoichiometry.
Standards Covered: CH.4a, CH.4b
In this unit, students will use Avogadro’s principle to understand the mole and perform mole conversions. Students will also determine the percent composition and empirical and molecular formula of a substance. This unit provides the foundational information required for the next unit, Stoichiometry.
Standards Covered: CH.4a, CH.4b
In this unit, students will learn how to use stoichiometry to calculate the amounts of reactants and products in chemical reactions. They will conduct experiments to see how mass and moles are conserved, identify limiting reagents, and calculate percent yield. Students will also explore how these concepts apply to real-world industrial processes.
Standards Covered: CH.4b
This unit explores the kinetic molecular theory to explain the behavior of gases, the relationships among pressure, volume, temperature, and the number of moles, and the deviations of real gases from ideal gas laws. Students will also investigate how intermolecular forces account for the physical properties of matter and differ from intramolecular bonds.
Standards Covered: CH.6a, CH.6b, CH.6c
This unit explores the properties and behaviors of solutions, including solubility, colligative properties, and the effects of temperature on solubility. Students will learn to interpret solubility curves, understand the concept of electrolytes, and calculate solution concentrations using molarity. They will also investigate how dissociation of solutes affects boiling and freezing points and how colligative properties are applied in everyday contexts.
Standards Covered: CH.5a, CH.5b, CH.5c, CH.5e
This unit on thermochemistry explores the principles of energy transfer, heat, and enthalpy in chemical reactions and phase changes. Students will learn how to measure and calculate energy changes, understand the role of specific heat capacity, and investigate the factors affecting reaction rates and the role of catalysts.
Standards Covered: CH.7a - CH.7g
In this unit, students will explore the chemical properties and reactions of acids and bases, including neutralization reactions and titrations. Students will learn to differentiate between the strength and concentration of acids and bases, understand the pH and pOH
scales, and relate hydronium ion concentration to pH. The unit will also cover the development of acid-base theories and their significance in the nature of science.
Standards Covered: CH.5d
Earth Science I students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL ES.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
This unit explores the big bang theory as the scientific explanation for the universe’s origins and how stars, star systems, and galaxies evolve over time. It will also investigate how the composition of celestial bodies influences their features, while recognizing the impact of space exploration on expanding our understanding of the universe’s structure and nature.
Standards Covered: ES.2a-d
In this unit, students will study the interactions between the Sun, Earth, and Moon, while exploring their roles in creating seasons, moon phases, eclipses, and tides. They will also practice map reading skills using latitude and longitude coordinates to understand the sun-Earth relationship.
Standards Covered: ES.3a-b
In this unit, students will examine the characteristics of minerals, including their chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties. They will also examine the diverse uses of minerals in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. Furthermore, students will investigate the creation of minerals under different conditions, gaining insight into how energy transfer and chemical composition impact mineral formation.
Standards Covered: ES.4a-c
This unit will explore the formation and transformation of rocks through diverse processes, gaining insights on how rocks evolve over time, delving into the rock cycle. It will also look at the identification and classification of rocks based on composition, texture, and formation processes. Finally, this unit will investigate the profound impact of weathering, erosion, and deposition on Earth’s surface.
Standards Covered: ES.5a – ES.5d
This unit will explore the formation and transformation of rocks through diverse processes, gaining insights on how rocks evolve over time, delving into the rock cycle. It will also look at the identification and classification of rocks based on composition, texture, and formation processes. Finally, this unit will investigate the profound impact of weathering, erosion, and deposition on Earth’s surface.
Standards Covered: ES.5a – ES.5d
In this unit, students will explore the theory of plate tectonics and how it is central to many Earth Science concepts. It explains how the structure of the Earth’s crust and many associated phenomena result from the interaction of rigid lithospheric plates that move slowly over the underlying mantle.
Standards Covered: ES.7a – ES.7d
In this unit, students will explore water on Earth. Water is found everywhere on Earth, from the heights of the atmosphere to the depths of the mantle. Although 70% of the planet’s surface is covered in water, only 2.5% is in the form of freshwater. Water not only impacts geological processes, but the limited amount of freshwater indicates it is a resource that must be conserved.
Standards Covered: ES.8a – ES.8d
In this unit, students will explore how rocks and fossils serve as time capsules, preserving ancient life, learning methods to determine the age of rocks, such as superposition, cross-cutting relationships, index fossils, and radioactive decay. They will also be able to differentiate between absolute and relative dating to understand the timeline of Earth’s history. Finally, they will discover that Virginia’s diverse rocks and fossils offer a glimpse into various periods and epochs of the Earth’s past.
Standards Covered: ES.9a – ES.9d
This unit explores the composition, evolution, and impacts on Earth’s atmosphere. Students will investigate how different atmospheric components support life, how the atmosphere has changed over geologic time, and the influence of natural events and human activities on atmospheric conditions. Through research and analysis, they will understand the complex interactions between the atmosphere and life on Earth, including the effects of public policies and human activities.
Standards Covered: ES.11a – ES.11d
This unit explores the dynamics of weather and climate, including atmospheric energy flow, weather patterns, severe weather events, and climate changes. Students will investigate how solar radiation interacts with Earth's atmosphere, predict weather conditions using various data, and analyze the impact of severe weather and climate change. Through research and hands-on investigations, they will understand the factors influencing weather and climate and the role of technology in prediction and mitigation.
Standards Covered: ES.12a – ES.12e
This unit explores the dynamics of weather and climate, including atmospheric energy flow, weather patterns, severe weather events, and climate changes. Students will investigate how solar radiation interacts with Earth's atmosphere, predict weather conditions using various data, and analyze the impact of severe weather and climate change. Through research and hands-on investigations, they will understand the factors influencing weather and climate and the role of technology in prediction and mitigation.
Standards Covered: ES.12a – ES.12e
This unit explores the dynamics of weather and climate, including atmospheric energy flow, weather patterns, severe weather events, and climate changes. Students will investigate how solar radiation interacts with Earth's atmosphere, predict weather conditions using various data, and analyze the impact of severe weather and climate change. Through research and hands-on investigations, they will understand the factors influencing weather and climate and the role of technology in prediction and mitigation.
Standards Covered: ES.12a – ES.12e
Earth is our home; its resources mold civilizations, drive human exploration, and inspire human endeavors in art, literature, and science. This unit explores the complexity of global resources, focusing on the availability, use, and impact of both renewable and nonrenewable resources. Students will analyze how resource extraction and consumption affect the environment and economy, with a particular emphasis on Virginia’s natural resources and energy production. Many factors affect the use and conservation of natural resources, including availability, renewal rates, and economics. The use and allocation of these resources globally have economic, political, and environmental impacts.
Standards Covered: ES.6a – ES.6d
Environmental Science students in Prince William County Public Schools learn content defined by the Guidelines set by the Virginia Department of Education. Students will experience the following units in this course:
In this unit, students will be introduced to environmental science to frame their thinking for future units. They will utilize their knowledge of natural resources and resource management to review the concepts of resources, sustainability, and the human impact of the environment. These concepts serve as the foundation upon which you will build further knowledge of how environmental issues have developed over time and how public awareness and support for solving environmental problems can have a positive impact.
This unit will explore how matter moves through living and nonliving things. It will look at the unique properties of water and how they contribute to life on Earth. Finally, it will find out how the movement of water and other biogeochemical cycles sustain life.
In this unit, students will understand the relationship between Earth’s physical systems, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere, and the lithosphere. It will also look at the characteristics, processes, and formation events that happen between and within the different spheres.
In this unit, students will discover how energy moves through the living and nonliving components of the Earth. Using examples and specific ecosystems, students will explore examples of how energy passes through each ecological level through interactions among organisms. They will discover the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems and explore the possible impacts of disruptions, such as invasive species. They will also find out how ecosystems change over time.
In this unit, students will discover that the Earth is in a dynamic equilibrium. Students will study the natural process of changes in an ecosystem and what factors influence those changes.
This unit focuses on understanding the importance of different types of resources formed naturally on Earth. Students will recognize differences between renewable and non-renewable resources and their societal and environmental advantages and disadvantages. Nuclear energy will be explained, considering its advantages and disadvantages. Major examples of renewable energy resources will be studied, comparing and contrasting their advantages and disadvantages. Human impact and energy usage will be discussed, considering pollution effects on the environment and future availability.
In this unit, students will analyze the reasons behind the increase in solid domestic waste. Additionally, students will examine how this increase results in a decrease of resources and an increase in environmental pollution at both local and global levels.
In this unit, students will discuss critical environmental topics, their current state, and future challenges. Conservation means preventing wasteful use of resources. They will examine Earth’s valuable resources and how to conserve them for future generations
This unit focuses on understanding the importance of environmental citizenship and responsibility. Students will look at various policies, both domestic and abroad.
Physics I students in Prince William County Public Schools learn the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) set by the Virginia Department of Education. The 2018 SOL require the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SOL PH.1 a-f) to be embedded throughout all units of study. Students will experience the following units in this course:
In this unit, students expand on what they already know, beginning by exploring the concepts of distance, displacement, velocity, and speed, and how they are related. They will learn to master this terminology and solve simple problems using equations. Finally, they will continue to learn by exploring how to create visual models of motion and learn the basics of vectors.
Standards Covered: PH.2a-b
In this unit, students will expand on what they already know about acceleration. They will learn about uniform acceleration, gravity and free-fall, and continued graphical analysis of motion.
Standards Covered: PH.2a
This unit focuses on understanding the fundamental concepts of position, velocity, and acceleration, and their interrelation with time. Students will delve into solving problems involving uniform circular motion, two-dimensional vectors, and projectile motion, enabling them to analyze displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time in both one and two dimensions.
Standards Covered: PH.2c-d
This unit on forces will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles governing the motion of objects. Students will solve problems involving force, mass, and acceleration, will learn to use free-body diagrams to analyze forces, and explain motion using Newton’s laws.
Standards Covered: PH.3a, PH.3b
In this unit, students will explore the principles of momentum and its conservation in mechanical systems. They will investigate how momentum is transferred between objects, use mathematical representations to demonstrate conservation, and solve related problems. Additionally, students will apply scientific and engineering concepts to design devices that minimize force during collisions.
Standards Covered: PH.4a
This unit explores the fundamental concepts of energy, including its various forms and transformations in everyday life. Students will investigate the conservation of energy in mechanical systems and conduct experiments to understand the conservation of electric charge. Additionally, they will solve problems related to work and power, applying these concepts to real-world scenarios.
Standards Covered: PH.4b
This unit explores the properties and behaviors of waves, including transverse and longitudinal waves, wave interactions, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Students will investigate wave characteristics, solve problems involving wave parameters, and understand the applications of wave phenomena in various contexts.
Standards Covered: PH.5a, PH.5b, PH.5c
This unit explores the behavior and modeling of light, including reflection, refraction, and the use of ray diagrams to understand optical systems. Students will conduct experiments using Snell's law, investigate the propagation of light, and determine the location and type of images formed by lenses and mirrors.
Standards Covered: PH.6a, PH.6b
This unit explores the nature and behavior of magnetic and electric fields, including the forces they exert on objects and their interactions. Students will compare Newton's law of universal gravitation and Coulomb's law, investigate the effects of magnetic fields on moving charges, and conduct experiments to understand the relationship between electric currents and magnetic fields.
Standards Covered: PH.7a, PH.7b
In this unit, students will explore the fundamentals of electrical circuits, including the roles of voltage, current, and resistance. They will learn to apply Ohm’s law to both series and parallel circuits, calculate electrical power, and understand the differences between direct
current and alternating current. Through hands-on activities and theoretical analysis, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how electrical systems function and their practical applications.
Standards Covered: PH.8a, PH.8e
In this unit, students will complete a final project. The final project is a comprehensive, student-led initiative that involves not only understanding a modern topic in physics, but also explaining the real-world implications of abstract concepts at a student-appropriate
level. The goal is to develop a deliverable and engage their classroom community actively in their learning process.
Standards Covered: PH.9a, PH.9i
These instructional materials have been reviewed and approved for Science instruction.
Mystery Science (Grades K-5)
FOSS Modules (Grades 3-5)
Scholastic SuperSTEM (Grades 4-5)
Gizmos (Grades 3-12)
Newsela
| Course/Grade | Publisher | Title |
|---|---|---|
| K-5 | Exploring Science All Around Us Series | Five Ponds Press |
| Course/Grade | Publisher | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 6 | Virginia Elevate Science Grade 6 | Savvas Learning Company LLC |
| Grade 7 | STEMscopes Life Science | Accelerate Learning, Inc. |
| Grade 8 | STEMscopes Physical Science | Accelerate Learning, Inc. |
| Course/Grade | Publisher | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Biology | Virginia Biology | Savvas Learning Company LLC |
| Chemistry | Pearson Chemistry | Savvas Learning Company LLC |
| Earth Science | National Geographic Earth and Space Science | National Geographic/Cengage |
| Environmental Science | Environmental Science: Sustaining Your World | National Geographic/Cengage |
| Physics | Essential Physics | PASCO Scientific |
Science resources to support your child at home.