FOSS Science Curriculum

Empowering Young Explorers Through Inquiry and Discovery

At Carden Conejo, science education begins with curiosity. Our program uses the FOSS (Full Option Science System) curriculum to spark wonder and critical thinking in every child, from Kindergarten through Sixth Grade. Grounded in hands-on exploration and real-world application, our science curriculum encourages students to ask questions, test ideas, and discover how the world works—laying the foundation for scientific literacy and lifelong learning.

We believe that science should be active, tactile, and filled with “a-ha” moments. Students become investigators, observers, and problem-solvers as they explore earth, physical, and life sciences through engaging, developmentally appropriate modules that build with each grade level.

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What We Teach

Kindergarten
- Exploring Trees and Weather
- Observing seasonal changes and plant life
- Developing vocabulary through hands-on observation
- Using senses to describe, compare, and record
1st Grade
- Sound and Light
- Plants and Animals
- Weather patterns and engineering design
- Beginning scientific investigations and recording data
2nd Grade
- Solids and Liquids
- Insects and Habitats
- Pebbles, Sand, and Silt
- Drawing conclusions from simple experiments
3rd Grade
- Structures of Life
- Water and Climate
- Motion and Matter
- Introduction to data analysis and measurement
4th Grade
- Energy
- Soils, Rocks, and Landforms
- Environments
- Designing controlled experiments and interpreting results
5th Grade
- Mixtures and Solutions
- Earth and Sun
- Living Systems
- Communicating findings using scientific tools and vocabulary
6th Grade
- Diversity of Life
- Planetary Science
- Levers and Pulleys
- Synthesizing information and applying scientific methods to problem-solving

Instructional Approach

Hands-On Experiments: Students engage in tactile learning using real materials, building scientific understanding through direct experience.
Collaborative Learning: Group investigations foster teamwork, communication, and peer learning.
Scientific Communication: Students keep science journals, present findings, and use grade-appropriate terminology to build confidence and clarity.
Integration Across Subjects: Science is woven into reading, writing, and math lessons, creating a holistic approach to learning.

Outcomes

By sixth grade, Carden Conejo students are confident, curious thinkers who approach science with enthusiasm and integrity. They are prepared for advanced coursework and ready to apply the scientific method across disciplines. Most importantly, they understand the world not just as it is—but as something they have the power to explore, question, and impact.

Let curiosity lead. Let discovery begin.

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Elementary School

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Each day, we nurture the wonder within—helping little ones grow with laughter, learning, and love that lasts a lifetime.

6th Grade

A Confident Step Toward Middle School Independence

Sixth grade is a capstone year where students build advanced skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking while preparing for the transition to middle school. With increasing independence and leadership opportunities, sixth graders grow into capable, thoughtful learners ready for the next chapter of their academic journey.

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Core Subjects

Language Arts
- Advanced grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary
- Essay writing, literary analysis, and creative writing
- Independent and group novel studies
- Oral presentations and poetry recitations
- Critical reading and response journals
Mathematics
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence
Science
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence
Social Studies
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence

Specialist Classes

French
- Conversational French, basic grammar, reading and writing
- Cultural studies of Francophone countries
- Role-play, songs, and vocabulary expansion
Music & Performing Arts
- Vocal development and musical notation
- Instrument exploration (e.g., guitar, keyboard, or percussion)
- Theatrical performance and public speaking
- Group performance in seasonal productions
Creative Arts
- Weekly studio art projects with various media
- Perspective drawing, shading, and color theory
- Artist studies (e.g., Da Vinci, Warhol, Cezanne)
- Cross-curricular art connections to social studies and literature
Physical Education
- Team sports, fitness routines, and leadership games
- Strength, endurance, coordination, and flexibility
- Emphasis on good sportsmanship and perseverance
- Presidential Physical Fitness program
Technology
- Research skills and safe digital navigation
- Keyboarding and productivity tools
- Presentation building (e.g., Google Slides or Canva)
- Digital citizenship and media literacy

Character & Social Development

Student leadership roles and classroom responsibilities
Weekly reflections and goal-setting
Kindness, empathy, and peer mentorship
Opportunities to lead group projects and school events

Typical Day in 6th Grade