Illinois Early Learning Standards
Science
Click on the underlined Benchmark below each Learning Standard to find activities or background information related to helping children reach the Benchmark.
STATE GOAL 11:
Understand the processes of scientific inquiry and technological design to investigate questions, conduct experiments and solve problems.
Learning Standard A:
Know and apply the concepts, principles and processes of scientific inquiry.
Benchmarks:
- 11.A.ECaUse senses to explore and observe materials and natural phenomena.
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- 11.A.ECbCollect, describe and record information.
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Learning Standard B:
Know and apply the concepts, principles and processes of technological design.
Benchmark:
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11.B.ECaUse scientific tools such as thermometers, balance scales and magnifying glasses for investigation.
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11.B.ECbBecome familiar with the use of devices incorporating technology.
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STATE GOAL 12:
Understand the fundamental concepts, principles and interconnections of the life, physical and earth/space sciences.
Learning Standard A:
Know and apply concepts that explain how living things function, adapt and change.
Benchmarks:
- 12.A.ECaInvestigate and categorize living things in the environment.
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12.A.ECbShow an awareness of changes that occur in themselves and their environment.
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Learning Standard B:
Know and apply concepts that describe how living things interact with each other and with their environment.
Benchmark:
- 12.B.ECDescribe and compare basic needs of living things.
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Learning Standard C:
Know and apply concepts that describe properties of matter and energy and the interactions between them.
Benchmark:
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12.C.ECMake comparisons among objects that have been observed.
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Learning Standard D:
Know and apply concepts that describe force and motion and the principles that explain them.
Benchmark:
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12.D.ECDescribe the effects of forces in nature (e.g. wind, gravity and magnetism).
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Learning Standard E:
Know and apply the concepts that describe the features and processes of the Earth and its resources.
Benchmarks:
- 12.E.ECaUse common weather-related vocabulary (e.g. rainy, snowy, sunny, windy).
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12.E.ECbParticipate in recycling in their environment.
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Learning Standard F:
Know and apply concepts that explain the composition and structure of the universe and the Earth’s place in it.
Benchmark:
- 12.F.ECIdentify basic concepts associated with night/day and seasons.
STATE GOAL13:
Understand the relationships among science, technology and society in historical and contemporary contexts.
Learning Standard A:
Know and apply the accepted practices of science.
Benchmark:
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13.A.ECBegin to understand basic safety practices.
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Learning Standard B:
Know and apply concepts that describe the interaction between science, technology and society.
Benchmarks:
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