1. Realize that different conclusions can be drawn from the same data and that all may be correct.

2. Identify and apply controlled, manipulated, and responding variables.

3. Think critically and logically about relationships between evidence and explanations.

4. Recognize and analyze alternative explanations and procedures.

5. Report findings using standard English.

6. Use evidence from the fossil record in sedimentary rock to describe the long history of changing life forms.

7. Analyze evidence for the scientific theories of the formation of the universe.

8. Compare changes in our sun to other stars in the universe.

9. Relate the time required for light from the sun to reach Earth to the time required from light from other stars and other galaxies to reach Earth.

10. Compare and contrast the planets in our solar system according to size, composition, surface features, number of moons and distance from the sun.

11. Analyze how exploration of space improves understanding of the universe.

12. Identify how Earth's relative position in space produces daylight and the seasons.

13. Recognize how the orbit of the moon around the Earth produces the phases of the moon.

14. Relate the alignment of the earth, sun and moon causing solar and lunar eclipses and the rising and falling of tides.

15. Predict how changes in the atmosphere, in ocean content or in the Earth's crust impact climate.

16. Identify conservation and recycling practices that prolong availability of Earth's resources.

17. Describe how heat flow and movement within Earth produce earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain formation.

18. Describe how rocks can change forms and are constantly being formed and worn away.

19. Analyze evidence that Earth processes occurring today have happened for millions of years and that its long history of change is documented in its rock record.

20. Describe how soil composition is determined by rock type and by action of living organisms (including humans), water and air.

21. Describe elements, compounds, and mixtures.

22. Explore how variables affect reaction rate.

23. Describe an object's motion in terms of speed or direction or both (velocity) and represent it in a variety of ways, including graphs and mathematical equations.

24. Explore how the gravitational force exerted by one object is dependent on the mass of each object and the distance between them.

25. Identify technological advances that provide more reliable and efficient management and control of equipment and procedures.

26. Illustrate how technology impacts the environment.