ABSTRACT
The Project Clarion Science Units for Primary Grades introduce young students to science concepts, science reasoning, and scientific investigation processes. Macroconcepts, such as systems or change, help students connect understanding of science content and processes. The units use a hands-on, constructivist approach that allows children to build their knowledge base and their skills as they explore science topics through play and planned investigations. The model represents a research-based set of differentiated curricular and instructional approaches found appropriate for high-ability learners. The macroconcept for this unit is change. A concept paper on change is included in Appendix A. The natural world changes continually; however, some changes may be too slow to observe. Students begin to understand the concept of change in science by learning about natural changes that occur over time, as well as manmade changes that impact conditions.
