Benchmark 2A
The Nature of Mathematics: Patterns and Relationships
Grades 3-5, page 27

Mathematics is the study of many kinds of patterns, including numbers and shapes and operations on them. Sometimes patterns are studied because they help to explain how the world works or how to solve practical problems, sometimes because they are interesting in themselves.
 

NSES Content Standard A 
Science as Inquiry: Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry  
Grades 5-8, page 148  
Use mathematics in all aspects of scientific inquiry. Mathematics is essential to asking and answering questions about the natural world. Mathematics can be used to ask questions, to gather, organize and present data, and to structure convincing explanations. 

NSES Content Standard A
Science as Inquiry: Understanding about scientific inquiry  
Grades 5-8, page 148  
Mathematics is important in all aspects of scientific inquiry.