Science and STEM
Science and STEM
CVUSD provides engaging, standards-aligned science and STEM learning experiences that encourage students to explore, investigate, design, and solve real-world problems. Students develop curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and critical-thinking skills that prepare them for future academic and career opportunities.
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Elementary science instruction is aligned with the California Next Generation Science Standards. Students learn important concepts in:
- Life science
- Physical science
- Earth and space science
- Engineering, technology, and applications of science
Students engage in the three dimensions of science learning: disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts that connect ideas across scientific fields.
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Students learn science by actively investigating questions and phenomena. They observe, ask questions, conduct investigations, analyze data, develop models, and use evidence to explain their findings.
Hands-on learning allows students to experience science in meaningful ways while developing collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and perseverance.
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Students use the Engineering Design Process to identify problems and develop possible solutions. Depending on the grade level and learning experience, students may:
- Ask questions and define the problem.
- Imagine possible solutions.
- Plan and create a design.
- Test the design.
- Analyze the results.
- Improve and redesign the solution.
- Communicate what they learned.
Students learn that testing, revising, and learning from unsuccessful attempts are important parts of innovation.
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Science notebooks help students record observations, organize data, draw models, explain results, and reflect on their learning. Students also develop grade-appropriate scientific vocabulary and learn to communicate their thinking through speaking and writing.
Teachers provide structured opportunities for students to discuss ideas, support claims with evidence, and use academic language in complete sentences.
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Students may participate in a variety of experiences that extend science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning, including:
- STEM labs and makerspaces
- Robotics and coding
- Engineering design challenges
- Drone technology and aviation experiences
- Environmental science
- Project-based learning
- Digital design and innovation
- School and district STEM competitions
Opportunities may vary by school, grade level, available resources, and community partnerships.
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The CVUSD STEM Showcase provides students with an opportunity to present projects, demonstrate solutions, and celebrate learning with families and the community. Students may share scientific investigations, engineering designs, robotics projects, coding applications, environmental solutions, and other innovations.
Information about participation, project requirements, dates, and locations will be provided by schools and the district.
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Elementary STEM experiences introduce students to skills and career fields connected to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, aviation, agriculture, healthcare, computer science, and skilled trades. These early experiences build a foundation for middle and high school coursework and CVUSD Career Technical Education pathways.
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Families can encourage STEM learning by:
- Asking children questions about how and why things work
- Conducting safe, age-appropriate investigations
- Building structures with household or recycled materials
- Cooking, measuring, gardening, and observing nature
- Exploring coding, robotics, or engineering activities
- Visiting museums, libraries, parks, and community events
- Encouraging children to design, test, and improve their ideas
