Grades K–2 Life Science Grade Level Expectations

Strand A: The Nature of Matter

Standard 1:
The student understands that all matter has observable, measurable properties.

Benchmark SC.A.1.1.1: The student knows that objects can be described, classified, and compared by their composition (e.g., wood or metal) and their physical properties (e.g., color, size, and shape).

Grade Level Expectations
The student:

Kindergarten

1. knows that objects have many different observable properties:

• color
• shapes
• forms

First

1. knows that objects can be grouped according to their physical characteristics.

Second:

1. knows ways objects can be grouped according to similarities or differences of their physical characteristics.

Strand F: Processes of Life

Standard 1:
The student describes patterns of structure and function in living things.

Benchmark SC.F.1.1.1: The student knows the basic needs of all living things.
The student:

Kindergarten

1. knows the basic needs of all living things.

Benchmark SC.F.1.1.4 The student understands that structures of living things are adapted to their function in specific environments.

Grade Level Expectations
The student:

Kindergarten

1. knows that plants and animals are found in different kind of environments and are often hidden.

First

1. knows that plants and animals have adaptations that help them survive in their environment (camouflage, teeth, spines).

Second

1. understands that structures of living things are adapted to their function in specific environments.

Benchmark SC.F.1.1.5: The student compares and describes the structural characteristics of plants and animals.

Grade Level Expectations
The student:

Kindergarten

1. knows selected characteristics of plants and animals (for example, shape, size, color).

First

1. understands different ways in which living things can be grouped (for example, plant/animals, edible plants/non-edible plants).

Second

3. knows that the structural characteristics of plants and animals are used to group them.

Standard 2: The student understands the process and importance of genetic diversity.

Benchmark SC.F.2.1.2: The student knows that there are many different kinds of living things that live in a variety of environments.

Grade Level Expectations

Kindergarten:

1. knows that plants and animals may live in different habitats.

First

3. knows some ways in which animals and plants are adapted to living in different environments.