S.T.E.M. Program

STEM Program Overview – Sudbrook Magnet Middle School

The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) program is a 3-year program for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Students in the program follow the same curricular topics in the same order as their general Science course. Through participation in the STEM Magnet program, students gain data analysis, research, and lab skills. Lab work begins with an emphasis on observation skills and builds analytical skills through thoughtful investigations. Students work on projects individually and collaboratively in small groups while applying literacy strategies and mathematical problem-solving skills. Projects are designed around STEM career options and require utilization of critical thinking, research, and communication skills.

UNITS

GRADE 6

Chemistry

matter, atoms, molecules, and extended structures

phases of matter

synthetic materials

interactions between substances

properties and changes of matter

Physics

Speed, velocity, and acceleration

units of measure

Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion

forces and collisions

Space Science

gravity and motion of celestial objects

composition of the universe

scale of objects in the universe

cyclical patterns of lunar phases, eclipses, and seasons

technology and space exploration

Earth Science

plate tectonics and convection currents

earthquakes, volcanoes, and changes to Earth’s surface over time

weathering, erosion, and the rock cycle

Life Science: Ecology

organization within ecosystems

living and nonliving factors in ecosystems

food chains, food webs, and interactions among organisms

energy flow and nutrient cycles

photosynthesis and cellular respiration

 

GRADE 7

Physical Science: Energy

types of energy

temperature

convection, conduction, and radiation

Life Science: Form and Function

characteristics of life

cell theory; unicellular vs. multicellular organisms

microscopes; plant, animal, and specialized cells

photosynthesis and cellular respiration

body systems and organs

Chemistry: Matter and Its Changes

chemical reactions

physical and chemical properties of substances

conservation of matter

endothermic and exothermic reactions

Physics: Forces and Waves

contact and non-contact forces

electricity and magnetism

 

GRADE 8

Earth Science

natural hazards, climate, weather

 

Life Science; Earth and Environmental Science

fossils, geologic time, extinction, anatomical structures

genetics, natural and artificial selection, related technology

natural resources, patterns of human use and consumption of resources, pollution