Instruction Resources
Career Technical Education
Students in high school can take Career Technical Education (CTE) courses that provide students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge and training.
Early Childhood
Early Childhood programs help early learners develop the essential skills, knowledge, and behaviors required to demonstrate school readiness for success in kindergarten and their future academic journeys.
Goals & Vision
Grade-level Resources
Pre-K3
Pre-K4
Kindergarten
Judy Center
Family Engagement
Contact Information
English Language Arts
The English Language Arts (ELA) program empowers students to become confident, critical thinkers who read, write, speak, and listen effectively.
Goals & Vision
To ensure all students have the skills needed to be successful readers and writers, CCPS provides high-quality literacy instruction (reading and writing) across all content areas.
The English Language Arts (ELA) Program aims to:
- build foundational skills through systematic and explicit instruction.
- provide students with opportunities to engage with diverse, complex texts to strengthen critical thinking and promote effective communication.
- provide rigorous curriculum and assessments that align to the Maryland College and Career Readiness Standards for ELA .
- equip students with essential skills required for academic success and lifelong learning
Grade-level Resources
Grades K-5
Grades 6-8
Middle School Program of Studies - ELA Course descriptions
Maryland College and Career Ready
- Digital tools used in instruction
- CommonLit
- Revision Assistant
- iReady
- Canvas
- Language! Live
Grades 9-12
- Course Descriptions
- Graduation Requirements
- Students must earn 4 English credits to graduate, aligned with the Maryland College and Career Readiness Standards (MCCRS).
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Required English courses include English I, English II, English III, and English IV (Honors and AP options available).
- College and Career Connections
- Read and analyze complex texts across genres and disciplines. (RL.10, RI.10).
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Write arguments, explanations, and narratives for varied audiences and purposes. (W.1, W.2, W.3).
- Conduct research to gather, evaluate, and integrate credible evidence. (W.7, W.8, W.9).
- Use academic and domain-specific vocabulary to convey precise ideas. (L.4, L.6).
- Speak and listen effectively in academic, civic, and professional contexts. (SL.1, SL.4, SL.6).
- Use digital tools responsibly to produce, publish, and collaborate on writing. (W.6).
- Apply critical thinking to interpret information and solve real-world problems. (RI.1, RL.1)
- Digital Tools Used in Instruction
- CommonLit (core digital curriculum)
- Turnitin (writing feedback and originality check)
- iReady (reading interventions diagnostic reading assessment)
- Canvas LMS for blended learning environments
Contact Information
- Beth Sorsby – Specialist in Early Childhood Education, bsorsby@ccboe.com
- Kim Hudler – Elementary Reading Content Specialist, khudler@ccboe.com
- John Tompkins – Middle School Language Arts Content Specialist, jtompkins@ccboe.com
- Latisha Burks – High School English Content Specialist, lburks@ccboe.com
English Language Development
Our English Language Development Program provides high-quality English instruction, teacher support, and family resources to help students thrive academically.
Goals & Vision
- Help students learn English and succeed in school.
- We support Multilingual Learners in improving their English skills through high-quality, research-based instruction that helps them do well in all classes.
- Support teachers and school staff.
- We provide training for teachers, principals, and school staff so they can better support students learning English in every classroom.
- Partner with families and the community.
- We offer family literacy programs, parent workshops, and outreach activities to help families support their children’s learning at home and at school.
- Encourage family voice and involvement.
- We work with families and follow state guidance, including Maryland’s Parent Advisory Council, to ensure Multilingual Learner families are informed, included, and engaged in schools.
For additional information, please visit:
https://www.ccboe.com/departments/eld
Grade-level Resources
Grades K-5
Elementary Multilingual Resources
Grades 6-8
middle school Multilingual Resources
Grades 9-12
Family & Community Resources
- ELD Program Information Brochure
- CCPS ELD Program Facebook page for program updates and events
- School Readiness Videos for Multilingual Learners
- Adult ESL classes at CSM
Free English classes for adults 18+ not enrolled in Charles County Public Schools. - What is ACCESS for ELLs testing?
- How can I prepare my student for WIDA Access?
- Tips to support your child to be successful on the WIDA Access Test:
- Towson ML Hub
- Charles County Resource Connection
Contact Information
Autumn Hoffman
Content Specialist for English Language Development and Bilingual Education
ahoffman@ccboe.com
301-934-7208
Michele King
Elementary Instructional Specialist
mking@ccboe.com
301-934-7211
Cara Stonestreet
Secondary ELD Instructional Specialist
cstonestreet@ccboe.com
301-392-5591
Jenny Herrera
Bilingual Family and Community Outreach Facilitator
jherrera@ccboe.com
301-934-7434
Mac-Kiesha Riley
Secretary to ELD and World Language mriley@ccboe.com
301-934-7322
Fine and Performing Arts
The fine and performing arts provide an essential path for students to learn about themselves and the world through creative and cultural expression.
Gifted and Talented
CCPS believes students who perform or show the potential for performing at high levels of accomplishment should have access to high quality gifted and talented education services.
Health
Developmentally appropriate instruction that empowers students to adopt and maintain healthy behaviors and skills. The content is tailored to instill age-appropriate skills for a healthy lifestyle, including effective communication, critical thinking, and responsible decision-making.
Grade-level Resources
Contact Information
Matt Golonka
Content Specialist for Health and Physical Education
mgolonka@ccboe.com
Home and Hospital Instruction
Home and Hospital Instruction provides instructional continuity to public school students, PreK-12, who are unable to participate in their regular school of enrollment due to a physical illness/injury, emotional crisis (including substance abuse), pregnancy, or chronic health impairment(s).
Judy Center
The Judy Center Early Learning Hub provides programs and services for families with children ages birth-5 who live in the Dr. Mudd, Eva Turner, JP Ryon, and Indian Head school zones. Judy Center programs and services are designed to support child development and increase school readiness.
Library Media Program
Our school libraries are hubs for learning, creativity, and discovery. The Library Media Program helps students build strong research skills, think critically, and develop a lifelong love of reading. We provide access to resources (print and digital) and support to make learning exciting and meaningful.
Mathematics
The Charles County Public Schools Mathematics Department is dedicated to supporting high-quality mathematics education for all students from PreK through grade 12. Our work is grounded in a commitment to instructional excellence, equity, and coherence across all grade levels.
Goals & Vision
We collaborate with educators, families, and community partners to ensure every student has access to rigorous and relevant math learning experiences that build deep understanding, fluency, and confidence.
Our key focus areas include:
- Curriculum Alignment: Delivering a consistent, standards-based math curriculum that supports student growth from early learning through high school.
- Instructional Support: Equipping teachers with effective strategies that promote reasoning, problem-solving, and real-world application.
- High-Quality Resources: Providing instructional materials that are engaging, inclusive, and reflective of students’ lived experiences.
- Assessment and Data Use: Using meaningful assessments and data to inform instruction and improve outcomes.
- Professional Learning: Offering ongoing, job-embedded development to strengthen math teaching and leadership.
- Equity and Access: Ensuring all students can succeed in mathematics, including access to advanced coursework and support systems.
- Family and Community Engagement: Partnering with stakeholders to support students’ mathematical growth and achievement.
Together, we are building a strong foundation in mathematics that empowers every learner to thrive in a dynamic, data-driven world.
Vision Statement:
Charles County Public Schools envisions a future where every student is empowered with strong mathematical numeracy, enabling them to think critically, solve problems creatively, and thrive in a dynamic, data-driven world. We are committed to fostering a culture of high expectations, equity, and excellence in mathematics for all learners from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to provide all students with equitable access to rigorous, relevant, and high-quality mathematics instruction that balances conceptual understanding and procedural fluency. Through aligned curriculum, effective teaching practices, meaningful assessments, and ongoing professional learning, we aim to ensure instructional coherence, support every student’s journey toward mathematical proficiency and lifelong success, and cultivate students’ love for learning mathematics.
Charles County Public Schools will:
- Prioritize the development of deep mathematical understanding and procedural fluency across all grade levels to prepare students to achieve the College and Career Readiness Standard.
- Implement instructional strategies that promote reasoning, problem-solving, and real-world application of mathematics.
- Utilize High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) that includes courses, units, lessons, activities, and representations are sequenced to help students develop an understanding of mathematical concepts, build fluency with procedures, and solve mathematical problems that reflect their lived experiences.
- Ensure all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to high-quality mathematics instruction and resources.
- Identify and eliminate barriers to participation and success in advanced mathematics pathways.
- Align curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional learning to create a seamless and coherent PreK–12 mathematics experience.
- Use data-driven decision-making to inform instruction and support continuous improvement.
- Provide ongoing, job-embedded professional development for educators focused on effective mathematics instruction and equity.
- Build instructional leadership capacity to support mathematics teaching and learning at every level.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy to share the district’s mathematics vision, goals, and progress with all stakeholders.
- Engage families, educators, and community partners in supporting students’ mathematical growth and achievement.
Grade-level Resources
All CCPS students will learn to reason, model, and think mathematically using the Standards of Mathematical Practice:
- Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
- Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
- Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
- Model with Mathematics.
- Use appropriate tools strategically.
- Attend to precision.
- Look for and make use of structure.
- Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
PreK-grade 6
Grade 7 through Integrated Algebra
7th grade through Integrated Algebra mathematics courses focus on the following domains:
- Number and Operations Sense
- Algebraic Thinking
- Geometric Reasoning
- Reasoning with Data, Statistics, and Probability
Interactive tools or apps
- Personalized instruction (My Path) located in a student’s Clever account
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-12
- High School Program of Studies
- Graduation Requirements: MSDE requires students to enroll in a math class every year that they attend high school (up to 4 years) and earn 4 credits of math beginning with students entering 9th grade in SY 2021-2022.Maryland Mathematics Graduation Requirements
- Desmos | Graphing Calculator, IXL on Clever for Algebra 1, Delta Math Plus
Course Information
- Algebra I
- Geometry
- Algebra II
- Advanced Algebra with Trig
- Pre-Calculus Honors
- Honors Statistics
- Intro to Advanced Math
- AP Precalculus
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Statistics
Algebra I
The Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards list conceptual categories that all students should study in order to be considered college and career ready. These categories include number and quantity, algebra, functions, geometry, modeling and probability and statistics. Charles County students will become proficient in these standards after completing a three course sequence – Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2. Students will take the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) at the end of Algebra 1.
The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
In this course, students will become fluent writing, solving, graphing and analyzing linear functions and inequalities. Students will extend their ability to analyze graphs to non-linear functions including identifying and writing inverse functions.
Students will apply their knowledge of factoring to solve quadratic equations before using the quadratic formula or completing the square as equation solving techniques. This will lead to graphing 2 variable quadratic equations on the coordinate plane and modeling with quadratic functions.
Systems of quadratic and linear equations will be solved using a combination of methods; substitution, elimination and/or graphing techniques. Exponential relationships will be introduced and students will simplify exponential expressions, solve exponential equations and graph exponential functions. Explicit and recursive sequences will be analyzed as linear or exponential relationships when appropriate.
The study of statistics will include two-way frequency tables, relative frequency, scatter plots, correlation, line of best fit and residuals.
The course concludes with a study of radical relationships with an emphasis on geometric applications including the distance formula and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Teachers will be using materials and resources by Illustrative Mathematics. Parents and families can find support resources on the site Illustrative Mathematics | v.360 Curriculum - Family. Students may find student materials here: Illustrative Mathematics | v.360 Curriculum - Student
Illustrative Mathematics 360 Unit Outline
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Geometry
The Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards list conceptual categories that all students should study in order to be considered college and career ready. These categories include number and quantity, algebra, functions, geometry, modeling and probability and statistics. Charles County students will become proficient in these standards after completing a three course sequence – Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2. Students will take the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) at the end of Algebra 1. If students do not achieve College and Career Readiness by earning a 3 or a 4 on the Algebra 1 MCAP, students will take the Geometry MCAP in the spring.
The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
In this course, students will work with compasses and straightedge constructions leading to formal proof writing to understand geometric definitions and theorems. Students will build on the knowledge from middle school of transformations, congruence, and similarity to apply to triangle and similarity theorems. This will allow the students to apply this knowledge to quadrilaterals, isosceles triangles, and other geometric figures.
Students will then work with volume formulas and the effect of dilation on both area and volume. Algebra and geometry will be connected through coordinate plane geometry, transformations, and the Pythagorean Theorem. This will allow students to build equations of circles, parabolas, parallel and perpendicular lines. Students will analyze relationships between segments and angles in circles and develop the concept of radian measure for angles, which will be built upon in subsequent courses. Within the classroom activities, students have many opportunities to engage in aspects of mathematical modeling.
Teachers will be using materials and resources by Illustrative Mathematics. Parents and families can find support resources on the site Illustrative Mathematics | v.360 Curriculum - Family
Illustrative Mathematics 360 Unit Outline
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Algebra II
The Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards list conceptual categories that all students should study in order to be considered college and career ready. These categories include number and quantity, algebra, functions, geometry, modeling and probability and statistics. Charles County students will become proficient in these standards after completing a three-course sequence – Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2.
The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
Students will study sequences to review linear and exponential functions through mathematical modeling. In this unit, students will also study situations modeled by polynomials then analyze polynomial graphs and expressions. Studying rational functions will allow students to identify, classify, and explain asymptotes and describe end behavior of graphs. Students will study and use polynomial identities to develop the formula for the sum of the first n terms of a geometric sequence.
Students will extend exponent rules to include rational exponents and then solve equations including square and cube roots with and without complex numbers to bring in the concept of non-real solutions. Students will then build on their knowledge of exponential functions to discuss growth and decay. They will use logarithms to solve for unknown exponents and then introduced to the number e to use in modeling continuous growth.
Students will build on prior knowledge of transforming functions graphically and algebraically while consolidating and generalizing this understanding. This topic will help students understand periodic functions like those found in trigonometric functions so students will be able to model periodic relationships. Within the classroom activities, students have many opportunities to engage in aspects of mathematical modeling.
Teachers will be using materials and resources by Illustrative Mathematics. Parents and families can find support resources on the site Illustrative Mathematics | v.360 Curriculum - Family
Illustrative Mathematics 360 Topic Outline
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Advanced Algebra with Trig
Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry is a one year course designed to provide students with a solid mathematical foundation in preparation for Pre-Calculus and other college level mathematics courses. This course places emphasis on utilizing algebra and trigonometry within real world applications.
The first semester focuses on Advanced Algebra and there will be an exam given near the end of the semester to test understanding of the material. Topics to be covered include but are not limited to algebraic, radical, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions.
The second semester focuses on Trigonometry. Topics to be covered include but are not limited to trigonometric functions using the Unit Circle and right triangle trigonometry, graphs of trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities, Law of Sines/Cosines, and solving trigonometric equations.
Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry is a rigorous college-level mathematics course that is equivalent to advanced algebra courses offered at every post-secondary institution. CCPS has partnered with the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) to offer students the opportunity to earn 3 college math credits without ever leaving the high school classroom. CSM will provide detailed information regarding the registration process. Also, the classroom teacher will provide the information to the student and parent/guardian.
For CSM enrolled students, the Final Exam will count as a total of 25% of the final MTH 1120 grade at CSM. The CCPS grade will not be affected by the CSM Dual Enrollment program.
| Unit 1 Pre-Requisite Skills |
Multi-Step Linear Equations, Factoring Methods, Functions, Domain & Range |
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| Unit 2 Algebraic Functions |
Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations and Inequalities, Graphing circles, distance & midpoint formulas, graphing quadratic equations, solving & graphing polynomials functions, inverse functions |
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Unit 3 |
Radical Expressions, Radical Equations, Inverse Functions, Radical Functions, Rational Expressions, Rational Equations, Rational Functions |
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Unit 4 |
Functions Exponential and Logarithmic Expressions, Equations, Functions and Applications |
| Unit 5 Trigonometric Functions | Right Triangle Trigonometry, Degrees and Radians, Special Right Triangles and the Unit Circle |
| Unit 6 Solving Triangles | Law of Sines, Law of Cosines, Area Formulas, Heron’s Formula, Applications of Laws |
| Unit 7 Graphing Trigonometric | Functions Sine and Cosine Functions, Tangent and Cotangent Functions, Secant and Cosecant Functions |
| Unit 8 Identities and Equations | Trigonometric Expressions, Identities, Functions and Equations |
| Unit 9 Conic Relations | Graphing and analyzing Parabolas, Circles, Ellipses and Hyperbolas |
Pre-Calculus Honors
Pre-Calculus lays the foundation for Calculus itself, as well as many other college level mathematics courses. This course provides the support and rigor needed to excel in college level mathematics. The course will take a thorough look at functions, their graphs, their characteristics, their relationships to one another, and their connections to the real world. It will also work to develop a clear understanding of sequences, series, trigonometry, and systems of equations. By the end of the course students work with limits and the beginning concepts of limits and derivatives.
Pre-Calculus is a rigorous college-level mathematics course that is equivalent to Pre-Calculus courses offered at every post-secondary institution. CCPS has partnered with the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) to offer students the opportunity to earn 4 college math credits without ever leaving the high school classroom. CSM will provide detailed information regarding the registration process. Also, the classroom teacher will provide the information to the student and parent/guardian.
For CSM enrolled students, the Final Exam will count as a total of 25% of the final MTH 1150 grade at CSM. The CCPS grade will not be affected by the CSM Dual Enrollment program.
| Unit 1 Intro to Functions |
Definitions of Function, Graphs of Functions, Function Transformations, Piecewise Functions |
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| Unit 2 Linear and Quadratic | Linear Functions, Quadratic Functions, Quadratic Inequalities |
| Unit 3 Polynomial and Rational Functions | Solving Polynomial Equations, Graphs of Polynomials, Rational Expressions and Equations, Graphs of Rational Functions |
| Unit 4 More with Functions | Domain and Range, Function Operations and Composite Functions, Difference Quotient and Average Rate of Change, Even and Odd Functions, One to One and Inverse Functions |
| Unit 5 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions | Intro, Properties of Logarithms, Solving Equations, Graphs, Application of Exponential and Logarithmic Functions |
| Unit 6 Trigonometric Functions | Intro, Radians, Special Right Triangles and Exact Values, Coordinate Plant Trig, Exact Values and Unit Circle, Graphs of Trig Functions, Polar Coordinates |
| Unit 7 Trigonometric Equations and Identities | Trig Equations, Trig Identities, Sum and Difference Formulas, Double and Half angle formulas, Applications involving Right Triangles, Law of Sines and Cosines, Area of a Triangle |
| Unit 8 Systems of Equations | Linear and Non-Linear Systems, Systems in 3 Variables |
| Unit 9 Introduction to Limits | Graphically, tables, analytically, finding at infinity, derivative and tangent line |
| Unit 10 “Stand Alone Topics” to Prep for Calculus | Partial Fraction Decomposition, Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences and Series, Circles, Average Rate of Change, Notation and Factorials, Permutations, Combinations, and the Binomial Theorem |
Honors Statistics
This course is designed to prepare students for college-level Statistics. Students will acquire and apply mathematical tools in the real-world following the MSDE Standards for Statistics and Probability. Students will explore data, conduct statistical studies, find patterns in univariate and bivariate data, and evaluate probabilities. A graphing calculator is highly recommended for this course. Algebra 2 is a prerequisite course.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Make sense of graphs, plots, and distributions of data
- Describe and use the empirical rule and normal distribution to discuss data
- Use rules of probability to predict events
- Conduct a random sample to test hypothesis and describe the shape of the results
- Find regression lines to fit data on a scatterplot
| Unit Title | Key Standards | Quarter |
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| Unit 1 – Data Analysis | Dotplots, stemplots, histograms, pie charts, box plots, measures of center and spread, describing and comparing distributions S.ID.A.1, S.ID.A.2, S.ID.A.3, S.ID.A.4 | 1 |
| Unit 2 – Modeling | Distributions Empirical Rule, Normal Distribution, Z-Scores S.ID.A.3, S.ID.A.4, S.MD.A.3 | 1 |
| Unit 3 – Probability | Introduction, Disjoint and overlapping events with two way tables, Disjoint Overlapping Events with Venn Diagrams, Conditional Probability, Independence and Tree Diagrams, Discrete and Binomial Random Variables S.CP.A.1, S.CP.A.2, S.CP.A.3, S.CP.A.4, S.CP.A.5, S.CP.B.6, S.CP.B.7, S.CP.B.8, S.MD.A.1, S.MD.A.2 | 2 |
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Unit 4 – Sampling Distributions, Confidence Intervals |
Introduction and describing shape, sample proportions, sample means S.IC.A.1a, S.IC.B.4 | 3 |
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Unit 5 – Testing Claims |
Introduction to Hypothesis testing, creating a Z and T interval, Performing Z and T tests S.IC.B.4, S.MD.A.2 | 3 |
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Unit 6 – LSRL, Scatterplot, Residual Plot |
Creating and reading a scatter plot, finding LSRL, Correlation coefficient, Residual Plot, Using residuals to determine if the line is a Good Fit, Chi Square tests S.ID.B.6, S.ID.B.6a, S.ID.B.6c, S.ID.B.6b, S.ID.C.8, S.ID.C.9 | 4 |
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Unit 7 – Two Sample Confidence Intervals and Hypothesis Testing |
2 Proportion Z Interval, 2 Proportion Z Test, 2 Sample T Interval, 2 Sample T Test S.IC.B.4, S.MD.A.2 | 4 |
Intro to Advanced Math
This course satisfies the MSDE 4th year math requirement, is approved by NCAA and corresponds with an equivalent course at the College of Southern Maryland; Quantitative Reasoning - MTH1010. Through our partnership with the College of Southern Maryland (CSM), you have the opportunity to earn 3 college math credits if you choose to register for MTH1010 at CSM. CSM will provide detailed information regarding the registration process. Also, the classroom teacher will provide the information to the student and parent/guardian. If registered, you will earn college credit by successfully completing the class in your high school. For CSM enrolled students, the Final Exam will count as a total of 25% of the final MTH 1150 grade at CSM. The CCPS grade will not be affected by the CSM Dual Enrollment program.
This course develops student skills in interpreting, understanding and using quantitative information. It teaches algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens and emphasizes critical thinking and statistical reasoning. It also develops skills in reading and writing quantitative information.
| Title | Topics |
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| Linear Functions Review | Graphing Linear Functions, Slope and Rate of Change |
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Quadratic Equations (Intermediate Alg. Ch. 10) |
Factoring, Solving Quadratic Equations |
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Quadratic Functions (Intermediate Alg. Ch. 10) |
Multiple Forms of Quadratics, Graphing Quadratic Functions, Modeling with Quadratics |
| Exponential Growth | (Chapter 8) Linear Versus Exponential, Doubling and Half-Life, Population Growth, Logarithmic Scales |
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Thinking Critically (Chapter 1) |
Living in the Media Age, Propositions and Truth Values, Sets and Venn Diagrams, Analyzing Arguments |
| Probability (Chapter 7) | Probability, Independent Events, Law of Large Numbers, Assessing Risk |
| Managing Money (Chapter 4) | Personal Finance, Compound Interest, Savings and Investments, Loans |
| Statistical Reasoning (Chapter 5) | Fundamentals of Statistics, Bias, Margin of Error, Misuse of Statistics, Tables and Graphs |
| Putting Statistics to Work (Chapter 6) | Central Tendency, Variation, Normal Distributions |
| Math in Music and Art (Chapter 11-12) | Mathematics in Music and Art, Symmetry and Proportion |
AP Precalculus
Advanced Placement (AP) Precalculus is a college-level math course offered in high school. It’s designed to prepare students for higher-level math courses such as calculus and to build strong problem-solving skills.
What Students Learn
Students explore foundational concepts that are essential for success in calculus and other STEM courses:
- Polynomial and rational functions
- Exponential and logarithmic functions
- Trigonometric and polar functions
- Modeling real-world scenarios with functions
- Understanding rates of change and function behavior
Why Take AP Precalculus?
- Builds a strong foundation for AP Calculus and college-level math
- Helps students develop analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Offers potential college credit or placement depending on exam score and college policies
- Prepares students for STEM majors and careers
The AP Exam
- Format: Multiple-choice and free-response questions
- Scoring: 1 to 5 scale; many colleges award credit for scores of 3 or higher
- Timing: Offered in May
How Parents Can Support
- Encourage consistent study habits and time management
- Ask about what they’re learning—precalculus includes many real-world applications
- Use resources like Khan Academy for extra practice
- Stay in touch with their teacher about progress and exam preparation
AP Calculus AB
Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB is a college-level math course offered in high school. It’s designed for students who enjoy math and are ready for a challenge. The course helps students build strong problem-solving and analytical skills that are valuable in college and careers.
What Students Learn
Students explore key concepts in calculus, including:
- Limits – Understanding how functions behave near specific points
- Derivatives – Measuring how things change (like speed or growth)
- Integrals – Calculating areas under curves and solving accumulation problems
- Applications – Using calculus to solve real-world problems in science, engineering, and economics
Why Take AP Calculus AB?
- College Credit: Many colleges offer credit or advanced placement for a qualifying score on the AP exam.
- College Readiness: Builds skills needed for STEM majors and careers.
- Challenge & Growth: Encourages deeper thinking and perseverance.
The AP Exam
- Format: Multiple-choice and free-response questions
- Scoring: 1 to 5 scale; most colleges award credit for scores of 3 or higher
- Timing: Offered in May
How Parents Can Support
- Encourage consistent study habits and time management
- Ask about what they’re learning—calculus is full of interesting ideas!
- Use resources like Khan Academy for extra practice
- Talk to their teacher about progress and preparation for the exam
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus BC is a college-level math course offered in high school. It builds on AP Calculus AB and covers additional advanced topics. This course is ideal for students who excel in math and are interested in STEM fields.
What Students Learn
Students explore a wide range of calculus concepts, including:
- Limits and continuity
- Derivatives and their applications
- Integrals and their applications
- Polynomial approximations and series
- Parametric, polar, and vector functions
- Advanced techniques of integration
Why Take AP Calculus BC?
- Earn college credit and placement for qualifying AP exam scores
- Prepare for college-level STEM courses
- Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Challenge themselves with rigorous academic content
The AP Exam
The AP Calculus BC exam includes both multiple-choice and free-response questions. It covers all topics from Calculus AB plus additional BC topics. The exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, and most colleges award credit for scores of 3 or higher.
How Parents Can Support
- Encourage consistent study habits and time management
- Ask about what they’re learning and show interest in the topics
- Use resources like Khan Academy for extra practice
- Communicate with the teacher about progress and exam preparation
AP Statistics
Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics is a college-level math course offered in high school. It’s designed for students who are interested in data, analysis, and real-world problem solving. The course helps students develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are valuable in college and careers.
What Students Learn
Students explore key concepts in statistics, including:
- Collecting and analyzing data
- Understanding probability and randomness
- Making predictions and informed decisions
- Interpreting graphs, charts, and statistical models
- Drawing conclusions from data using statistical inference
Why Take AP Statistics?
- College Credit: Many colleges offer credit or advanced placement for a qualifying score on the AP exam.
- College Readiness: Builds skills needed for majors in social sciences, business, biology, and more.
- Real-World Relevance: Helps students understand data in everyday life—from surveys to sports to science.
The AP Exam
- Format: Multiple-choice and free-response questions
- Scoring: 1 to 5 scale; most colleges award credit for scores of 3 or higher
- Timing: Offered in May
How Parents Can Support
- Encourage consistent study habits and time management
- Ask about what they’re learning—statistics is full of interesting real-world applications
- Use resources like Khan Academy or College Board for extra practice
- Talk to their teacher about progress and preparation for the exam
Family Resources
MSDE Math Policy
PK-12 Standards through 2025-2026:
- Maryland College and Career Ready Standards for Mathematics
- Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) Mathematics
PK-8 beginning in 2026-2027; Integrated Algebra 1 in 2027-2028; Integrated Algebra 2 in 2028-2029
Family Resources for Numeracy Development Frameworks (PK-8)
COMING SOON!
Enrichment and Math Acceleration Opportunities:
Gifted and Talented Education Services - Charles County Public Schools
Illustrative Math Resources K- Algebra 2:
https://ilclassroom.com/wikis/16847049-family-support-hub-illustrative-mathematics-k-12
Khan Academy Resources
Algebra 1 | Math | Khan Academy
High School Geometry | Khan Academy
Algebra 2 | Math | Khan Academy
High School Statistics | Khan Academy
Statistics and Probability | Khan Academy
Precalculus | Math | Khan Academy
AP®ï¸Ž Statistics | College Statistics | Khan Academy
Contact Information
Christina Ghrist
Elementary School Math Content Specialist
cghrist@ccboe.com
301-934-7382
Sheila Hettel
Middle School Math Content Specialist
shettel@ccboe.com
301-934-7372
Laura Buzzell
High School Math Content Specialist
lbuzzell@ccboe.com
301-934-7407
Physical Education
Comprehensive instruction that develops all students’ knowledge, confidence, skills, and motivation to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity.
Grade-level Resources
Contact Information
Matt Golonka
Content Specialist for Health and Physical Education
mgolonka@ccboe.com
Science
Every student will participate in meaningful, phenomena-based science experiences from early learning through high school that spark curiosity, build foundational scientific literacy, and connect learning to the world around them. Through these experiences, students will develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills needed to navigate and contribute to an increasingly complex, science-informed world—preparing them for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
Grade-level Resources
- Grade K Overview
- Grade 1 Overview
- Grade 2 Overview
- Grade 3 Overview
- Grade 4 Overview
- Grade 5 Overview
- Grade 5 MISA Practice Test
- Grade 6 Overview
- Grade 7 Overview
- Grade 8 Overview
- Grade 8 MISA Test
- Earth Systems
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Environmental Science
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
Grade K Overview
| Theme | Lessons/ Standards | Mystery Science/ Standards |
|---|---|---|
|
Theme 1: Curious about Kindergarten Weather and Climate – K-PS3- 1, K-PS3-2, K-ESS3-2 |
Weather Notebook | Sunlight & Warmth (Sunny Skies) K-2-ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-3, K-PS3-1, K-PS3-2 |
| Sunlight | ||
| Shady Structures | ||
| Local Weather Events | Severe Weather (Wild Weather) K-ESS2-1, K-ESS3-2 | |
| Weather Forecasting | ||
|
Theme 2: There’s Only One Me Weather and Climate & Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems - K-ESS2-1, K- LS1-1 |
Seasonal Sort | Weather Patterns (Circle of Seasons) K-ESS2-1, K-ESS2-2 |
| Leaves | ||
|
Theme 3: My Community Heroes Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems – K-ESS2-2, K- ESS3-3 |
Less is More | |
| Litter | ||
| Recycling | ||
|
Theme 4: Happy Healthy Me Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems – K-LS1-1 |
Living Things | |
|
Theme 5: I Can Do It Forces and Interactions – K-PS2-1. K-PS2-2 |
PLTW Module – Pushes & Pulls | Pushes & Pulls (Force Olympics) K-2_ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, K-2-ETS1-3, K-PS2-1, K-PS2- |
| Forces in Motion (optional) | ||
| Let It Roll (optional) | ||
|
Theme 6: Home of the Free and the Brave |
Social Studies Connections | |
|
Theme 7: Zoom In Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems – K-ESS3-1 |
What’s Wild | |
| Lunch for a Bear | ||
| Tracks | ||
|
Theme 8: From Plant to Plate Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems – K-LS1-1 |
Plants | Plant Needs (Plant Secrets) K-ESS3-3, K-LS1- |
| Worms | ||
|
Theme 9: Animal Habitats Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems –K- ESS3-1 |
PLTW Module – Animal Algorithms | Animal Needs (Animal Secrets) K-ESS2-2, K-ESS3-1, K-LS1-1 |
| Who Lives in a Tree |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 1 Overview
Quarter 1
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Science & Engineering Practices | 1 | Getting to know you | |
| 2 | Being a Scientist | What does a scientist do? How do scientists know so much? | |
| 3 | Observing/Senses |
Mini-lessons: Observing & Asking Questions Experiments & Variables |
|
| 4 | Observing/Senses | ||
| 5 | Classifying | ||
| 6 | Tools/Measuring Intro | ||
| 7 | Ruler | ||
| 8 | Balance (cm cubes) | ||
| 9 | It’s All About Science Design Challenge K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1- |
Quarter 2
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure/ Function: Animals | 1 | Physical Traits 1-LS3-1 | Animal Superpowers |
| 2 | Are You My Mommy? 1-LS1-2, 1-LS3- | ||
| 3 | How do Parents Help Offspring? 1-LS1-2 | ||
| 4 | Camouflage 1-LS1-1 | ||
| 5 | Communication 1-LS1-2 | ||
| 6 | Physical Traits Design Challenge 1-LS1-1 | ||
| Space Systems: Patterns & Cycles | 7 | Patterns 1-ESS1- | Sun & Shadows |
| 8 | Earth & Sun 1-ESS1-1 | ||
| 9 | Day & Night 1-ESS1-2 |
Quarter 3
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space Systems: Patterns & Cycles | 1 | Seasons 1-ESS1-2 | Moon & Stars |
| 2 | Moon 1-ESS1-1 | ||
| 3 | Stars/Constellations 1-ESS1-1 | ||
| 4 | Earth. Moon, & Sun STEM 1-ESS1-1, ESS1-2, K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2 | ||
| Waves: Light and Sound | 5 | Intro to Sound 1-PS4-1 | Lights & Sounds |
| 6 | Sound 1-PS4-1 | ||
| 7 | Light 1-PS4-2 | ||
| 8 | Blocking Light 1-PS4-3 | ||
| 9 | Musical Instrument Design Challenge 1-PS4-4 |
Quarter 4
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure/Function Plants | 1 | Living & Non-Living | Living & Nonliving- Are plants alive? |
| 2 | Observe Plants, Plant Parts 1-LS1-1, 1-LS1-2, 1-LS3-1 | Plant Superpowers | |
| 3 | Are You My Plant Parent? | ||
| 4 | Edible Plants | ||
| 5 | Growing Plants- What Do They Need | ||
| Habitats | 6 | Habitats | |
| 7 | School Yard Habitats | ||
| 8 | Animals & Habitats | ||
| 9 | Animal & Habitats |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 2 Overview
Quarter 1
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Science & Engineering Practices | 1 | Getting to know you | |
| 2 | Who are scientists? | Observing and Asking Question | |
| 3 | Tools | ||
| 4 | Measurement - Ruler | ||
| 5 | What is mass? - Balance | ||
| 6 | Hot or Cold - Thermometer | ||
| 7 | What is volume? Graduated Cylinder | ||
| 8 | How can I observe the small details using a hand lens? | ||
| 9 | Pencil Pouch – Design Challenge |
Quarter 2
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure & Properties of Matter | 1 | Properties of Matter 2-PS1-1 | States of Matter |
| 2 | Properties of Matter 2-PS1-1 | ||
| 3 | Changing Matter 2-PS1-4 | ||
| 4 | Heating 2-PS1-4 | Material Magic | |
| 5 | Cooling 2-PS1-4 | ||
| 6 | Bob the Builder/Legos 2-PS1-3 | ||
| 7 | Suck it Up 2-PS1-1, 2-PS1-2 | ||
| 8 | Dog House Design Challenge K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2, ETS1-3 | ||
| 9 | Dog House Design Challenge K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2, ETS1-3 |
Quarter 3
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth’s Systems: Processes that Shape the Eart | 1 | Water Cycle Introduction 2-ESS2-2 | Work of Water |
| 2 | Evaporation 2-ESS2-2 | ||
| 3 | Condensation 2-ESS2-3 | ||
| 4 | Precipitation 2-ESS2-2 | ||
| 5 | Water Cycle Model 2-ESS2-2 | ||
| 6 | Landforms 2-ESS2-2, 2-ESS2- | ||
| 7 | Slow Changes 2-ESS1-1 | ||
| 8 | Fast Changes 2-ESS1-1 | ||
| 9 | Disappearing Baseball Field Design Challenge 2-ESS2-1, K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2, ETS1-3 |
Quarter 4
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems | 1 | Living vs. Nonliving 2-LS4-1 | |
| 2 | Parts of a Plant/Observations 2-LS2-1 | Plant Adventures | |
| 3 | Plant Life Cycles/Needs 2-LS2-1 | ||
| 4 | Spreading seeds 2-LS2-2 | ||
| 5 | Buzzing Bees/Pollination 2-LS2-2 | ||
| 6 | Habitats 2-LS4-1 | Animal Adventures | |
| 7 | Habitats 2-LS4-1 | ||
| 8 | Hand Pollinators – Design Challenge 2-LS2-1, 2-LS2-2, K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2, ETS1-3 | ||
| 9 | Hand Pollinators – Design Challenge 2-LS2-1, 2-LS2-2, K-2-ETS1-1, ETS1-2, ETS1-3 |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 3 Overview
Quarter 1
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forces and Interactions | 1 | Getting to know you | |
| 2 | Intro- CER | ||
| 3 | Gravity 3-PS2-1 | Invisible Forces | |
| 4 | Balanced & Unbalanced Forces 3-PS2-1 | ||
| 5 | Predictable Patterns & Friction 3-PS2-2 | ||
| 6 | Static Electricity 3-PS2-3 | ||
| 7 | Magnets 3-PS2-3 | ||
| 8 | Magnetic Poles and Forces 3-PS2-3 | ||
| 9 | Magnetic Design Challenge 3-PS2-4 |
Quarter 2
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather & Climate | 1 | Weather & Seasons 3-ESS2-1 | Stormy Skies |
| 2 | Weather in Different Places 3-ESS2-1 | ||
| 3 | Climates of the World 3-ESS2-2 | ||
| 4 | Weather vs. Climate 3-ESS2-2 | ||
| 5 | Weather & Climate Patterns 3-ESS2-2 | ||
| 6 | Weather Data 3-ESS2-1 | ||
| 7 | Wild Weather 3-ESS2-1 | ||
| 8 | Engineering Design Challenge – Windproof House Design 3-ESS3-1 | ||
| 9 | Engineering Design Challenge – Windproof House Design 3-ESS3-1 |
Quarter 3
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inheritance & Variation of Traits | 1 | Fossil Traits/Origins 3-LS4-1 | |
| 2 | Fossil Layers and Ages 3-LS4-1 | ||
| 3 | Organizing Fossil Data 3-LS4-1 | ||
| 4 | Changing Environments 3-LS4-1 | ||
| 5 | Traits of Organisms 3-LS3-1 | ||
| 6 | Inherited Traits 3-LS3-2 | ||
| 7 | Variations of Traits 3-LS4-2 | ||
| 8 | Adaptations 3-LS4-2 | ||
| 9 | Environmental Changes can change organisms 3-LS4-4 |
Quarter 4
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems MWEE | 1 | Biodiversity / Biodiversity Inventory 3-LS4-3 | |
| 2 | Competition and Organism Needs 3-LS4-3 | ||
| 3 | Life Cycles 3-LS1-1 | Circle of Life | |
| 4 | Traits for Survival 3-LS4-2, L-LS4-4 | ||
| 5 | Human Interactions 3-LS4-4 |
Circle of Life Fates of Traits
|
|
| 6 | Animal Groups 3-LS2-1 | ||
| 7 | Research Solutions 3-LS4-4, ETS1- | ||
| 8 | Action Project Planning 3-LS4-4, ETS1-1, ETS 1-2 | ||
| 9 | Solutions 3-LS4-4, ETS1-1, ETS 1-2 |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 4 Overview
Quarter 1
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth’s Systems: Processes that Shape the Planet | 1 | Getting to know you | |
| 2 | Intro – CERs | ||
| 3 | Maps 4-ESS2-2 | ||
| 4 | Maps 4-ESS2-2 | ||
| 5 | Sedimentary Rocks 4-ESS1-1 | The Birth of Rocks | |
| 6 | Rock Dating/Fossils 4-ESS1-1 | ||
| 7 | Weathering 4-ESS2-1 | ||
| 8 | Erosion 4-ESS2-1 | ||
| 9 | Build a Barrier – Impact Solution 4-ESS3-2 |
Quarter 2
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 1 | Energy in Motion 4-PS3-1, PS3- | Energizing Everything |
| 2 | Speed 4-PS3-1 | ||
| 3 | Collisions 4-PS3-3 | ||
| 4 | Thermal Energy 4-PS3-2 | Electricity, Light, & Heat | |
| 5 | Electrical Energy 4-PS3-2 | ||
| 6 | Sound Energy 4-PS3-2 | Waves of Sound | |
| 7 | Solar Energy 4-PS3-2 | ||
| 8 | Energy Transfer 4-PS3-2 | Wind Power – Engineering Design Challenge | |
| 9 | Energy Transfer 4-PS3-4 |
Quarter 3
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth’s Energy | 1 | Natural Resources/Fossil Fuels 4-ESS3-1 | |
| 2 | Chocolate Chip Mining 4-ESS3-1, 4-ESS3- | ||
| Waves: Waves & Interactions | 3 | Wave Patterns 4-PS4-1 | Waves of Sound |
| 4 | Amplitude and Wavelength 4-PS4-1 | ||
| 5 | Motion of Objects – Waves 4-PS4-1 | ||
| 6 | Using Patterns to Transfer Information 4-PS4-3 | ||
| Information Processing | 7 | Using Patterns to Transfer Information 4-PS4-3 | Human Machine |
| 8 | Sensory Receptors 4-LS1-2 | ||
| 9 | Light Reflection, Sensory Receptors 4-LS1-2 |
Quarter 4
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Processing | 1 | The Eye 4-PS4-2 | Animal & Plant Adaptations |
| 2 | The Brain 4-LS1-2 | ||
| Structure, Function | 3 |
Animal Behaviors 4-LS1-2 Internal & External Structures Animals 4-LS1-1 |
|
| 4 | Internal & External Structures - Animals 4-LS1-1 | ||
| 5 | Internal & External Structures – Animals 4-LS1-1 | ||
| 6 | Internal & External Structures – Animals 4-LS1-1 | ||
| 7 | Internal & External Structures – Animals 4-LS1-1 | ||
| 8 | Internal & External Structures – Animals 4-LS1-1 | ||
| 9 | Internal & External Structures – Animals 4-LS1-1 |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 5 Overview
Quarter 1
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure & Properties of Matter | 1 | Getting to know you/CER Intro | |
| 2 | Qualitative and Quantitative 5-PS1-3 | ||
| 3 | Teeny Tiny Particles 5-PS1-1 | ||
| 4 | Conservation of Matter 5-PS1-2 | ||
| 5 | Properties of Matter 5-PS1-3, 5-PS1-4 | ||
| 6 | Mixing Matter 5-PS1-3, 5-PS1-4 | ||
| 7 | Physical and Chemical Changes 5-PS1-4 | ||
| 8-9 | Macroplastics – Unit 1 5-PS1-3 |
Quarter 2
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth’s Systems: Processes that Shape the Planet | 1 | Spheres 5-ESS2-1 | Watery Planet |
| 2 | Geosphere Interactions – Slow Changes 5-ESS2-1 | ||
| 3 | Geosphere Interactions – Fast Changes 5-ESS2-1 | ||
| 4 | Hydrosphere Interactions -Salt v. Fresh 5-ESS2-2 | ||
| 5 | Hydrosphere Interactions – Water Cycle 5-ESS2-1 | ||
| 6 | Biosphere Interactions - Biomes 5-ESS2-1 | ||
| 7 | Macroplastics – Unit 1 Exploring the Properties 5-PS1-3 | ||
| 8 | Macroplastics – Unit 2 Modeling the Path 5-ESS2-1 | ||
| 9 | Human Impacts 5-ESS3-1 |
Quarter 3
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space Systems: Stars & the Solar System | 1 | Space Overview – Gravitational Force and Star brightness 5-ESS1-1 | |
| 2 | Space – Patterns in the Sky 5-ESS1-2 | ||
| 3 | Energy from the Sun-Photosynthesis 5-LS1-1 | ||
| 4 | Energy in Organisms – Food Chains 5-LS2-1, 5-PS3-1 | ||
| Matter & Energy in Organisms & Ecosystems | 5 | Energy in Organisms – Decomposers, Ecosystems & Matter Cycle 5-LS2-1 | |
| 6 | Energy in Organisms – Food Webs & Flow of Energy 5-LS2-1, 5-PS3-1 | ||
| 7 | MISA Review & Testing – Data Analysis, Testing Platform & Strategies | ||
| 8 | Energy in Organisms – Food Webs 5-LS2-1, 5-PS3-1 | ||
| 9 | Transfer of Energy into the Environment 5-LS2-1 |
Quarter 4
| Unit | Week | Lessons/ Standards |
Mystery Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience - MWEE | 1 | Macroplastics – Unit 3 5-LS2-1, 5-LS2.A | |
| 2 | Star Brightness 5-ESS1-1 | ||
| 3 | Patterns in the Sky 5-ESS1-2 | ||
| 4 | Macroplastics – Unit 4 Call to Action - MWEE 5-ESS3-1 | ||
| 5 | Packing for a Launch 5-PS2-1, 5-ESS1-1,5-ESS1-2 | ||
| Grade 6 Frontload | 6 | Scientific Method | |
| 7 | Scientific Data Analysis | ||
| 8 | Engineering | ||
| 9 | Real World Solutions |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 5 MISA Practice Test
Grade 6 Overview
Integrated Earth and Space Science-6th Grade (2025-2026)
This course of study is based on the Maryland State Department of Education Content Standards (in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards) as part of the middle school science program. The course content include the use of scientific skills and processes to explain the physical interactions within the electromagnetic spectrum, and the natural processes that occur within and on the Earth.
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested time frame.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | (Lab Safety, Science and Engineering Skills Review, Scientific Method Skills) (MS-ETSI-2) | 1 week |
| 2 | Electricity/Magnetism (MS-PS2-3, MS-PS2-5) | 3 weeks | |
| 3 | Wave Properties and Mechanical Waves (MS-PS4-1, MS-PS4-2) | 3 weeks | |
| Quarterly Assessment Window (MS-PS2-3, MS-PS2-5, MS-PS4-1, MS-PS4-2) | 1 week | ||
| Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach (MS-PS2-3, MS-PS2-5, MS-PS4-1, MS-PS4-2) | 1 week | ||
| 2 | 4 | Electromagnetic Spectrum and Analog and Digital Signals (MS-PS4-2, MS-PS4-3) | 2 weeks |
| 5 | Interior of the Earth/Tectonic Processes (MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2 Large Scale Geoscience Processes) | 5 weeks | |
| Quarterly Assessment Window (MS-PS4-2, MS-PS4-3, MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2) | 1 week | ||
| Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach (MS-PS4-2, MS-PS4-3, MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2) | 1 week | ||
| 3 | 6 | Formation of Rocks/Rock Cycle (MS-ESS1-4) | 2 weeks |
| 7 | Erosion/Weathering (MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2 Small Scale Geoscience Processes | 2 weeks | |
| 8 | Law of superposition/fossils/ Geologic Time Scale (MS-ESS2-3, MS-ESS1-4) | 3 weeks | |
| Quarterly Assessment Window (MS-ESS1-4, M-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2, MS-ESS2-3) | 1 week | ||
| Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach (MS-ESS1-4, M-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2, MS-ESS2-3) | 1 week | ||
| 4 | 9 | Water Cycle/Human Impact on the Environment (MS-ESS2-4, MS-ESS3-2, MS-ESS3-3, MS-ESS3-4 | 3 weeks |
| 10 | Weather Systems/Severe Storms (MS-ESS2-5) | 3 weeks | |
| 11 | Climates/Climate Change (MS-ESS3-5, MS-ESS2-6 | 2 weeks | |
| 12 | Uneven Distribution of Earth’s Resources (MS-ESS3-1) | 1 week |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 7 Overview
Life Science - 7th Grade (2025-2026)
This course of study is based on the Maryland State Department of Education Content Standards (in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards) as part of the middle school science program. The course content includes the use of scientific skills and processes to explain the dynamic nature of living things, their interactions, and the results from the interactions that occur over time.
The matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested timeframe.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Beginning of the Year Activities Building Relationships | 1 week |
| 2 | Cells (MS-LS1-1 | 2 weeks | |
| 3 | Cell Functions (MS-LS1-1, MS-LS1-2 | 2 weeks | |
| 4 | Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration (MS-LS1-6, MS-LS1-7 | 1 week | |
| 5 | Quarterly Assessment Window (MS-LS1-1, MS-LS1-2, MS-LS1-6, MS-LS1-7 | 1 week | |
| 6 | Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach (MS-LS1-1, MS-LS1-2, MS-LS1-6, MS-LS1-7) | 5 weeks | |
| 2 | 7 | Body Systems/Sensory Receptors (MS-LS1-3, MS-LS1-8 | 2 weeks |
| 8 | Animal & Plant Reproduction (MS-LS1-4) | 1 week | |
| 9 | Quarterly Assessment Window (MS-LS1-4, MS-LS1-3, MS-LS1-8) | 1 week | |
| 10 | Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach (MS-LS1-4, MS-LS1-3, MS-LS1-8) | 1 week | |
| 3 | 11 | Genetics (MS-LS3-2) | 3 weeks |
| 12 | Mutations, Adaptations, & Modifications (MS-LS3-1, MS-LS1-5, MS-LS4-5) | 3 weeks | |
| 13 | Natural Selection & Population Trends (MS-LS4-4, MS-LS4-6) | 2 weeks | |
| 14 | Quarterly Assessment Window (CER Writing Prompt) | 1 week | |
| 4 | 15 | Interactions in Ecosystems/Food Webs (MS-LS2-3 | 3 weeks |
| 16 | Interdependent Relationships (MS-LS2-1, MS-LS2-2 | 3 weeks | |
| 17 | Ecosystem Dynamics (MS-LS2-4, MS-LS2-5) | 2 weeks |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 8 Overview
Integrated Science-Grade 8 and Grade 8 Honors 2025-2026
This course of study is based on the MSDE Content Standards (in alignment with the NGSS) as part of the middle school science program. The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard, and the suggested pacing.
| Quarter | Unit | Week | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | School Based | 1 | Beginning of the Year Activities and Notebooks Building Relationships, Routines, and Expectation |
| 1 Science | 2 | Scientific Studies Scientific Method with CERS | |
| 2 Space | 3 | Gravitational Interactions MS-PS2-4 | |
| 4 | History of the Universe with Gravity MS-ESS1-2 | ||
| 5 | Stars and Galaxies MS-ESS1-2 | ||
| 6 | Our Solar System & Planets MS-ESS1-3 | ||
| 7 | Our Solar System & Small Objects MS-ESS1-3 | ||
| Reteach and Review | 8 | Review and Quarterly Assessment MS-PS2-4, MS-ESS1-2, MS-ESS1-3 | |
| 9 | Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach MS-PS2-4, MS-ESS1-2, MS-ESS1- | ||
| 2 | 3 Sun-Earth-Moon Relationship | 1 | Seasons & Earth’s Tilt MS-ESS1-1 |
| 2 | Moon Phases MS-ESS1-1 | ||
| 3 | Eclipses MS-ESS1-1 | ||
| 4 Motion | 4 | First Law of Motion MS-PS3- | |
| 5 | Second Law of Motion MS-PS3- | ||
| 6 | Third Law of Motion MS-PS2-1 | ||
| 7 | Laws of Motion Investigation MS-PS2-2 | ||
| Reteach and Review | 8 | Review and Quarterly Assessment MS-ESS1-1, MS-PS3-2, MS-PS3-1, MS-PS2-1, MS-PS2-2 | |
| 9 | Quarterly Assessment Analysis and Reteach MS-ESS1-1, MS-PS3-2, MS-PS3-1, MS-PS2-1, MS-PS2 | ||
| 3 | 5 Energy | 1 | Potential and Kinetic Energy with 7 Forms MS-PS3-5 |
| 2 | Energy Conversions MS-PS3-5 | ||
| 3 | Thermal Energy MS-PS3-3 & 3-4 | ||
| 6 Matter | 4 | Properties of Matter & Density MS-PS1-1 | |
| School Based | 5 | MISA Review 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Standards | |
| 6 Matter | 6 | States of Matter MS-PS1-4 | |
| 7 | Changes in State with Particle Energy MS-PS1-4 | ||
| 7 Atoms & Elements | 8 | Composition of Matter with Atoms MS-PS1-1 | |
| 9 | Periodic Table MS-PS1-1 | ||
| 4 | 1 | Elements and Chemical Compounds MS-PS1-1 | |
| 8 Mixtures | 2 | Physical vs Chemical Changes MS-PS1-2 | |
| 3 | Types and Separation of Mixtures MS-PS1-1 | ||
| 4 | Acids, Bases, and pH MS-PS1-2 | ||
| 9 Chemical Reactions | 5 | Chemical Reactions with Types MS-PS1-2 | |
| 6 | Conservation of Matter MS-PS1-5 | ||
| 7 | Endothermic & Exothermic Reactions MS-PS1-6 | ||
| School Based | 8 | Left blank for PARCC Assessments and Catch-Up | |
| 9 | End of the Year Activities |
- Legends of Learning- Access through Clever
Grade 8 MISA Test
Earth Systems
This course of study is based on the Next Generation Science Standards as part of the high school science program. The course content includes the use of scientific skills and processes to explain the physical behavior of the environment, Earth, and the universe.
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested period.
Common Assessment Schedule
| Quarter | Window | NGSS Standards Assessed |
| 1 | October 13-29, 2025 | HS-ESS1-1, HS-ESS1-2, HS-ESS1- |
| 2 | January 6-21, 2026 | HS-ESS1-5, HS-ESS2-3 |
| 3 | March 10-26, 2026 | HS-ESS2-2, HS-ESS2-5 |
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
| 1 | Review | Earth’s Spheres and Their Fundamentals (Review previous knowledge: Density, Gravity, Convection, Chemistry Basics | 3 |
| Space | EM Spectrum and Evidence of the Big Bang ESS1-2 | 2 | |
| Stellar Evolution and Elements ESS1-3 | 2 | ||
| The Sun and its Radiation ESS1-1 | 1 | ||
| 2 | Planetary Evolution and Formation of Earth ESS1-6 | 1 | |
| Earth Systems | Minerals and Earth’s Layers (density and convection will be reviewed in Earth’s Spheres/Fundamentals) (Minerals in relation to common minerals for the layers/ magma and minerals formed in Earth’s Evolution) ESS1-5 | 22 | |
| Continental Drift/Seafloor Spreading ESS1-5 | 2 | ||
| Theory of Plate Tectonics Hess, Put all together ESS1-5 | 1 | ||
| Earthquakes | 1 | ||
| Volcanoes | 1 | ||
| 3 | Rocks and the Rock Cycles ESS2-3 | 1 | |
| Effects of Water | Hydrosphere | 2 | |
| Weathering | 3 | ||
| Erosion/Deposition | 2 | ||
| 4 | Weather and Climate | Atmosphere (evolution of and current) | 1 |
| Weather and Climate including Energy Flow | 2 | ||
| Human Sustainability | Fossil Fuels/Carbon Cycle | 1 | |
| Climate Change and Human Impact | 3 | ||
| Energy Sources | 2 |
Biology
This course of study is based on the Maryland Science Content Standards (aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards) as part of the high school science program. The course content includes the use of scientific skills and processes and major biological concepts to explain the uniqueness and interdependence of living organisms, their interactions with the environment, and the continuation of life on earth.
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested time frame. Overlap of the units is highly recommended.
Common Assessment Schedule
| Quarter | Window | NGSS Standards Assessed |
| 1 | October 13-29, 2025 | HS-LS2-1, HS-LS2-4, HS-LS2-6, HS-LS4-6 |
| 2 | January 6-21, 2026 | HS-LS1-2, HS-LS1-6, HS-LS1-7, HS-LS2-3 |
| Quarter | Unit | Week | Unit Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | School Based | 1 | Introduction Week: Syllabus, Scientific method (emphasis on variables), CER, Graphing, Safety Tes |
| Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems | 2 | Population changes / dynamics Biodiversity / ecosystem stability / succession HS-LS2-1 / HS-LS2-2 | |
| 3 | Human Impact on Biodiversity HS-LS4-6 | ||
| Matter and Energy to Organisms and Ecosystems | 4 | Cycling of Matter & Flow of Energy (Includes: Niche, Organism Relationships & Energy Pyramids) HS-LS2-4 | |
| 5 | Cycling of Matter & Flow of Energy (Includes: Niche, Organism Relationships & Energy Pyramids) HS-LS2-4 | ||
| 6 | Interactions in Ecosystems (Includes: Succession) HS-LS2-6 | ||
| 7 | Quarter 1 Assessment Data Driven Review *This date will depend upon the testing window and release of Quarter 1 Assessment scores. | ||
| Structure & Function | 8 | Molecular Movement (Osmosis / Diffusion / Cell Membrane / Vacuole / Lysosome) HS-LS1-2 | |
| 9 | Molecular Movement (Osmosis / Diffusion / Cell Membrane / Vacuole / Lysosome) HS-LS1-2 | ||
| Quarter 1 Common Assessment (Grade will go in quarter 1 gradebook) | |||
| 2 | Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems | 1 | Macromolecules & Enzymes HS-LS1-6 |
| 2 | Macromolecules & Enzymes HS-LS1-6 | ||
| 3 | Respiration (Mitochondria) HS-LS1-7 | ||
| 4 | Respiration (Mitochondria) HS-LS1-7 | ||
| 5 | Review Photosynthesis / Chloroplast | ||
| 6 | Cycling of Matter (Connection between photosynthesis & respiration) 2-3 | ||
| 7 | Cycling of Matter (Connection between photosynthesis & respiration) 2-3 | ||
| 8 | Quarter 2 Common Assessment (grade will go in quarter 2 gradebook) | ||
| 9 | DNA Replication / Nucleus Transcription / Translation / Ribosomes HS-LS1-1 | ||
| 3 | Structure and Function | 1 | DNA Replication / Nucleus Transcription / Translation / Ribosomes HS-LS1-1 |
| 2 | DNA Replication / Nucleus Transcription / Translation / Ribosomes HS-LS1-1 | ||
| Inheritance and Variation of Traits | 3 | Genes / Gene Expression (Introns vs. Exons / Non-coding Regions) HS-LS3-1 | |
| 4 | Meiosis / Nucleus / Chromosomes / DNA (Variation of traits) HS-LS3-2 *This topic may require a brief review of Mitosis (Nucleus / DNA & Chromosomes) | ||
| 5 | Meiosis / Nucleus / Chromosomes / DNA (Variation of traits) HS-LS3-2 | ||
| 6 | Meiosis / Nucleus / Chromosomes / DNA (Variation of traits) HS-LS3-2 | ||
| 7 | Mock / Quarter 3 Assessment Data Driven Review *This date will depend upon the testing window and release of Mock / Quarter 3 Assessment scores. | ||
| Natural Selection & Evolution | 8 | Evidence for Evolution (Fossils, DNA sequence, homologous / analogous / vestigial structures, embryology, cladograms) HS-LS4-1 | |
| 9 | Evidence for Evolution (Fossils, DNA sequence, homologous / analogous / vestigial structures, embryology, cladograms) HS-LS4-1 | ||
| 4 | 1 | Evidence for Evolution (Fossils, DNA sequence, homologous / analogous / vestigial structures, embryology, cladograms) HS-LS4-1 | |
| 2 | Natural Selection Explanation (Organisms with more favorable traits become more common, while those with less favorable traits become less common / die out) Analyze population graph over time HS-LS4-3 | ||
| 3 | Human Impact on Evolution (Extinction / Endangered Species) HS-LS4-5 | ||
| 4-9 | Left blank for MISA Review and Catch-up | ||
| MISA Final Exam Assessment (20% score will go in gradebook for BIOLOGY students) |
Chemistry
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | NGSS | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 |
Measurement
|
HS-PS1-7 | 8-10 periods; 4-5 blocks |
| 1 | 2 |
Matter and Atomic Structure
|
HS-PS1-1 | 12-14 periods; 6-7 blocks |
| 1 | 3 |
Periodic Trends and Electron Configuration
|
HS-PS1-1 | 12-14 periods; 6-7 blocks |
| 2 | 4 |
Chemical Bonding
|
8-10 periods; 4-5 blocks | |
| 2 | 5 |
Moles
|
HS-PS1-7 | 10-12 periods; 5-6 blocks |
| 2 | 6 |
Chemical Reactions
|
HS-PS1-4 HS-PS1-5 HS-PS1-6 |
18-20 periods; 9-10 blocks |
| 3 | 7 |
Stoichiometry
|
HS-PS1-7 | 10-12 periods; 5-6 blocks |
| 3 | 8 |
Solutions and Molarity
|
HS-PS1-3 HS-PS1-5 |
14-16 periods; 7-8 blocks |
| 3 | 9 |
Acids and Bases
|
HS-PS1-2 HS-PS1-3 |
14-16 periods; 7-8 blocks |
| 4 | 10 |
Gas Laws
|
HS-PS1-3 HS-PS1-5 HS-PS1-6 |
12-14 periods; 6-7 blocks |
| 4 | 11 |
Thermochemistry
|
HS-PS1-4 | 12-14 periods; 6-7 blocks |
| 4 | 12 |
Nuclear Chemistry
|
HS-PS1-8 | 12-14 periods; 6-7 blocks |
Physics
This course of study is based on the Next Generation Science Standards as part of the high school science program. The course content includes the use of scientific skills and processes to explain and predict the outcome of certain interactions which occur between matter and energy.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Intro/ Math Review Chapter 1 | 2 weeks |
| 2 | 1& 2 Dimensional Kinematics Chapter 2 &3 | 5 weeks | |
| 3 | Forces, Newton’ Laws, Tension, and Friction Chapter 4 | 4 weeks | |
| 2 | 4 | Work, Energy, Power Chapter 5 | 2 weeks |
| 5 | Momentum and Collisions Chapter 6 | 3 weeks | |
| 6 | Circular and Rotational Motion, Kepler’s Laws Chapter 7 & (8) | 3 weeks | |
| 3 | 7 | Electrostatics, Electric Potential, Capacitance Chapter 17 &18 | 3 weeks |
| 8 | Circuits Chapter 19 & 20 | 2 weeks | |
| 9 | Electromagnetism and Inductance Chapter 21 & (22) | 3 weeks | |
| 10 | Heat and Thermodynamics Chapter 10 and 11 | 2 weeks | |
| 4 | 11 | Waves and SHM Chapter 12 | 2 weeks |
| 12 | Sound and Light Chapter 13 & 14 (seniors leave after) | 3 weeks | |
| 12 | End of the year Projects or Modern/Astrophysics | 4 weeks |
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested period.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Fundamentals, Atoms, Molecules, and Ions |
| 2 | Stoichiometry | |
| 3 | Aqueous Reactions | |
| 4 | Thermochemistry | |
| 2 | 5 | Electronic Structure of Atoms, Periodicity |
| 6 | Gases | |
| 7 | Intermolecular Forces, Liquids, and Solids | |
| 3 | 8 | Chemical Bonding |
| 9 | Properties of Solutions | |
| 10 | Thermodynamics | |
| 11 | Chemical Kinetics | |
| 4 | 12 | Electrochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry |
| 13 | Chemical Equilibrium | |
| 14 | Acids and Bases |
AP Environmental Science
(Chapter # is based on Miller & Spoolman-Living in the Environment, 17th edition)
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested period.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Humans & Sustainability: An Overview Chapter 1 |
| 2 | Science, Systems, Matter, & Energy Chapter 2 | |
| 3 | Ecosystems: What are they? How do they work? Chapter 3 | |
| 4 | Climate & Terrestrial Biodiversity Chapter 7 | |
| 5 | Aquatic Biodiversity Chapter 8 | |
| 2 | 6 | Biodiversity and Evolution Chapter 4 |
| 7 | Biodiversity, Species Interactions, and Population Control Chapter 5 | |
| 9 | Human Population and Its Impact Chapter 6 | |
| 10 | Environmental Hazards and Human Health Chapter 17 | |
| 3 | 11 | Food, Soil, and Pest Management Chapter 12 |
| 12 | Water Resources Chapter 13 | |
| 13 | Geology & Nonrenewable Mineral Resources Chapter 14 | |
| 14 | Nonrenewable Energy Chapter 15 | |
| 15 | Water Pollution Chapter 20 | |
| 4 | 16 | Solid & Hazardous Waste Chapter 21 |
| 17 | Air Pollution Chapter 18 | |
| 18 | Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Chapter 16 | |
| 19 | Climate Disruption & Ozone Depletion Chapter 19 | |
| 20 | Sustainability: Economic, Political, and Worldviews/Ethics Chapters 23-25 |
AP Physics 1
The following matrix includes units of study, the content standard match, and the suggested period.
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Math Review | 1 week |
| 2 | 1-Dimensional Kinematics | 2 weeks | |
| 3 | 2-Dimensional Kinematics | 1 week | |
| 4 | Forces | 3 weeks | |
| 2 | 5 | Energy | 3 weeks |
| 6 | Momentum | 3 weeks | |
| 7 | Circular Motion | 2 weeks | |
| 3 | 8 | Rotational Motion | 2 weeks |
| 9 | Rotational Dynamics | 2 weeks | |
| 10 | Electrostatics | 2 weeks | |
| 11 | Circuits | 2 weeks | |
| 4 | 12 | Simple Harmonic Motion | 2 weeks |
| 13 | Sound | 1 week | |
| 14 | Mechanical Waves | 2 weeks |
AP Physics 2
| Quarter | Unit | Unit Title | Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fluids | Fluid Systems | 4 weeks |
| Density | |||
| Fluids: Pressure and Forces | |||
| Fluids and Free-Body Diagrams | |||
| Buoyancy | |||
| Conservation of Energy in Fluid Flow | |||
| Conservation of Mass Flow Rate in Fluids | |||
| Thermodynamics | Thermodynamic Systems | 4 weeks | |
| Pressure, Thermal Equilibrium, and the Ideal Gas Law | |||
| Thermodynamics and Forces | |||
| Thermodynamics and Free-Body Diagrams | |||
| Thermodynamics and Contact Forces | |||
| Heat and Energy Transfer | |||
| Internal Energy and Energy Transfer | |||
| Thermodynamics and Elastic Collisions: Conservation of Momentum | |||
| Thermodynamics and Inelastic Collisions: Conservation of Momentum | |||
| Thermal Conductivity | |||
| Probability, Thermal Equilibrium, and Entropy | |||
| Enzyme Catalysis | |||
| Environmental Impacts on Enzyme Function | |||
| 2 | Electric Force, Field, and Potentia | Electric Systems | 6 weeks |
| Electric Charge | |||
| Conservation of Electric Charge | |||
| Charge Distribution— Friction, Conduction, and Induction | |||
| Electric Permittivity | |||
| Introduction to Electric Forces | |||
| Electric Forces and Free-Body Diagrams | |||
| Describing Electric Force | |||
| Gravitational and Electromagnetic Forces | |||
| Vector and Scalar Fields | |||
| Electric Charges and Fields | |||
| Isolines and Electric Fields | |||
| Conservation of Electric Energy | |||
| Electric Circuits | Definition and Conservation of Electric Charge | 3 weeks | |
| Resistivity and Resistance | |||
| Resistance and Capacitance | |||
| Kirchhoff’s Loop Rule | |||
| Kirchhoff’s Junction Rule and the Conservation of Electric Charge | |||
| Meiosis and Genetic Diversity | |||
| 3 | Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction | Magnetic Systems | 3 weeks |
| Magnetic Permeability and Magnetic Dipole Moment | |||
| Vector and Scalar Fields | |||
| Monopole and Dipole Fields | |||
| Magnetic Fields and Forces | |||
| Magnetic Forces | |||
| Forces Review | |||
| Magnetic Flux | |||
| Geometric and Physical Optics | Waves | 4 weeks | |
| Electromagnetic Waves | |||
| Periodic Waves | |||
| Refraction, Reflection, and Absorption | |||
| Images from Lenses and Mirrors | |||
| Interference and Diffraction | |||
| 4 | Quantum, Atomic, and Nuclear Physics | Systems and Fundamental Forces | 3-4 weeks |
| Radioactive Decay | |||
| Energy in Modern Physics (Energy in Radioactive Decay and E=mc2) | |||
| Mass–Energy Equivalence | |||
| Properties of Waves and Particles | |||
| Photoelectric Effect | |||
| Wave Functions and Probability |
Contact Information
Leigh Ann Anderson
Science Resource Teacher
landerson@ccboe.com
301-934-7368
Ian Buter
Content Specialist for Science
ibuter@ccboe.com
301-934-7226
Special Education
Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is dedicated to providing every student with a disability the support, services, and opportunities necessary for success. CCPS is committed to ensuring that each student with a disability achieves academic excellence, develops independence, and thrives as a valued member of the community.
Social Studies
Welcome to the Social Studies Resource Hub. This page provides resources and guidance for families and students to support learning in Social Studies across all grade levels. Social studies helps students understand the world around them- past, present, and future by exploring history, geography, economics, citizenship, and cultures.
Program Overview
Social studies is a vital part of the PK–12 curriculum that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for responsible citizenship in a diverse and interconnected world. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws from history, geography, economics, political science, anthropology, psychology, sociology, and the humanities. Through these disciplines, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and participatory skills that enable them to analyze issues, understand multiple perspectives, and take informed action in their communities, nation, and world.
Our program emphasizes inquiry-based learning aligned with the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework, ensuring that instruction is engaging, rigorous, and student-centered. The C3 Framework places inquiry at the heart of social studies, fostering curiosity and deeper understanding while preparing students for college, careers, and civic life. Instruction integrates disciplinary literacy, real-world application, and democratic decision-making to help students become active, informed citizens.
To meet diverse learning needs, we offer multiple pathways and opportunities:
- Elementary Foundations: At the elementary level, integrated frameworks elevate social studies instruction through inquiry, collaboration, and connections to literacy, ensuring a strong foundation for future learning.
- Core Courses and Electives: Students explore required courses and a variety of electives that expand their understanding of social studies disciplines.
- Differentiated Levels: At the secondary level, Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, and A Level courses provide appropriate challenges and supports based on student achievement and interest.
Our ultimate goal is to empower students to think critically, engage thoughtfully, and act responsibly—skills essential for sustaining a vibrant democracy and thriving in the 21st century.
Vision
Social Studies in Charles County prepares students to become informed, capable, and responsible citizens of their community who have an appreciation of the skills and knowledge necessary to be contributing members of a democratic society and a diverse and interdependent world.
Grade-level Resources
PreK-2
Social Studies in PK-2 lays the foundation for informed, responsible citizenship by helping young learners explore their roles in families, schools, and communities. Through inquiry in civics, geography, economics, and history, students develop skills to ask questions, analyze information, and connect past and present. These early experiences build understanding of fairness, diversity, and decision-making while integrating literacy skills across subjects.
Elementary Program of Studies - Social Studies
Grades 3-5
Social Studies in grades 3-5 deepens students’ understanding of citizenship, history, geography, and economics by connecting local, national, and global contexts. Through inquiry and analysis, students explore how communities evolve, how governments form and function, and how economic and cultural forces shape society. These grades emphasize critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and informed action while integrating literacy skills across disciplines.
Elementary Program of Studies - Social Studies
Grades 6-8
Middle school social studies builds global and national understanding through inquiry and analysis. In grades 6 and 7, students explore geography and world cultures, examining movement, human systems, and interactions with the environment across time and regions. In grade 8, students study U.S. history from colonization through Reconstruction, analyzing how geography, economics, and civic ideals shaped the American story.
Middle School Program of Studies
- 8th Grade MCAP Social Studies Test: measures historical thinking and evidence-based argument skills. Students analyze sources and write short and extended responses about U.S. history topics from the Revolution through Reconstruction.
Grades 9-12
High school Social Studies courses- Modern World History, United States History, and American Government-prepare students to analyze historical and contemporary issues through civic, geographic, economic, and historical lenses. These courses emphasize inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and informed action while fostering understanding of democratic principles and global interconnections. Students engage with primary sources, construct arguments, and apply disciplinary concepts to interpret patterns of change and continuity across time and space. Electives and AP courses are available for students who want a deeper understanding of social studies topics and skills.
- High School Program of Studies
- Student Service Learning
Service learning is a Maryland graduation requirement. Students must design, carry out, and reflect on a project that addresses a school or community need, meeting MSDE quality criteria. Components of this program are integrated into 10th grade LSN. - Government MCAP Social Studies Test: assesses understanding of government and civic processes through source-based questions and evidence-based arguments.
- Graduation Requirements
Family & Community Resources
MSDE PK-12 Standards:
State Standards and Frameworks in Social Studies
College Board AP Social Studies Courses
Social Studies Resources through Clever:
- Discovery Education
- McGraw Hill
- iCivics
Databases for Research through Clever
- PebbleGo
- Britannica Image Quest
- Britannica School
- World Book Online
- Library of Congress
- Digital Maryland
Contact Information
Allen Hopkins
Social Studies Content Specialist
ghopkins@ccboe.com
301-934-7443
World Language
The CCPS World Language program provides students in grades 7-12 with rigorous and engaging instruction, ensuring equitable access to challenging coursework for all learners. Through the study of world languages, students develop proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing while gaining cultural understanding- skills essential for success in an interconnected world.
Goals & Vision
In CCPS World Language courses, students build proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in their chosen language while developing cultural understanding and global awareness. Instruction emphasizes real-world communication skills that prepare students to thrive in college, careers, and an interconnected world.
For heritage and native Spanish speakers, CCPS offers specialized Heritage and Native Spanish (HNS) courses. These classes honor students’ linguistic and cultural backgrounds while strengthening academic Spanish literacy and expanding language skills. Students gain opportunities for advanced study, including AP courses, and meet Maryland’s world language graduation requirements.
The CCPS World Languages program supports CCPS’s instructional priorities by:
- Equity and Access: Providing rigorous coursework for all learners, including heritage speakers.
- College and Career Readiness: Developing multilingual skills essential for success in a global economy.
- Cultural Competence: Fostering understanding and respect for diverse perspectives.
Grade-level Resources
Grades 6-8
-
Charles County Public Schools offers the following World Languages in 7th and 8th grades in middle school: French (Davis MS and Somers MS), Spanish (all Middle Schools), and Heritage and Native Spanish (HNS) (all Middle Schools).
-
The World Language Program embraces the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages which identifies five goal areas in Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities. These goals stress the application of learning a language beyond the instructional setting and are essential for citizens in a global community and marketplace.
-
Course descriptions- Middle School Program of Studies - Charles County Public Schools
Grades 9-12
- Charles County Public Schools offers the following World Languages: French, Spanish, Latin, and American Sign Language.
- The World Language Program embraces the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages which identifies five goal areas in Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities. These goals stress the application of learning a language beyond the instructional setting and are essential for citizens in a global community and marketplace.
- Course descriptions - World Languages - Charles County Public Schools
- Graduation Requirements -Maryland students are required to earn 2 credits of the same world language in order to graduate. Spanish courses and Heritage and Native Spanish courses count as the same language. Some colleges and universities require three years of high school study in the same World Language. Students should determine if the college or university of their choice has such a requirement.
Family & Community Resources
- MSDE World Languages website- World Languages
- Maryland World Readiness Standards for Learning Languages
- The Maryland Seal Of Biliteracy
Contact Information
Linda McLaughlin
Content Specialist for World Languages
lmclaughlin@ccboe.com
301-302-8304