The physical sciences involve the study of forces and motion, and, matter and energy. How an object moves is influenced by a range of contact forces (friction) and non-contact forces (magnetic, gravitational, and electrostatic). Energy can come in many forms (heat, light, sound, electricity) and can be transferred between objects or transformed from one form to another.

The Earth and Space sciences involve the study of the dynamic interdependent nature of Earth’s systems and how it is part of a larger astronomical system. Interactions between Earth’s systems and astronomical systems can be explored over a range of time scales.

The biological sciences involve the study of the diverse range of living things, their interdependence on each other, and their interactions in the environment.

The chemical sciences involve the study of the composition and properties of substances. This involves classifying substances, exploring physical changes (changes of state or dissolving), and how chemical changes result in the production of new substances.