SCIS uses a thematic approach to science literacy that emphasizes depth of understanding and conceptual development. Each module in SCIS 3 focuses on the application of classroom science to the life of the learner, and each kit includes almost all of the necessary materials to carry out the investigations in the unit. The majority of the events and activities in the unit occur in the team aquarium systems. After the children have set up their aquaria, they observe such events as egg laying, birth, and the death of various plants and animals in the system. In Section One, students describe, sort and plant seeds, observe germination, and identify water as requirements for plant growth.
Students build and observe their aquaria in Section Two.
Activities include identifying male and female guppies, observing the growth and development of young guppies and snails, and understanding the concept of experiment. Subsequent sections introduce the concept of habitat, the study of algae, developing food chains, and observing decay. Students plan their experiments and record their observations in worksheets and tables contained in journals provided in the kit. The teacher's guide provides background information, directions for advance preparation, an index of materials included in the kit, suggested teaching procedures, informal assessments, extension activities, and cross curricular applications. Each section concludes with review activities that provide additional assessment opportunities.