Students will deepen and build upon their knowledge of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. They will study human and animal anatomy in detail, focusing on systems organization and function, including metacognition. They will be able to explain cell structure, cell characteristics and cell functions and demonstrate an understanding of DNA structure and function. They will conduct experiments in genetics and show understanding of reproductive processes. Biology laboratory exercises will include digital dissection.
Elementary School
The elementary science curriculum will expose the students to all areas of natural science, including Astronomy, Geology, Meteorology, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
In Astronomy students will study the solar system, the stars, nebulae, supernovae and black holes. In Geology, they will study the formation and structure of the earth, including the study of volcanoes, earthquakes, rocks and minerals and fossils. Students will gain an understanding of climate, seasons, and weather phenomena.
In Physics, students will study machines, forces, and energy. Students will learn the scientific classification of living things in Biology. They will study the structure of plant cells and the life cycle of animals, including a grade appropriate study of human anatomy, nutrition, and wellness. The issues of ecology, energy resources, and environmental protection will be discussed.
In Chemistry, students will study the properties of elements; age appropriate chemical reactions, and changes in the states of matter. Students will conduct scientific experiments and learn techniques for measuring and analyzing data. They will learn the safe and proper use of scientific equipment and use of elementary mathematic concepts including the metric system. The scientific method will be used including forming and testing a hypothesis, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Students will also study the lives and discoveries of famous scientists and inventors.
The middle school curriculum will deepen the student’s knowledge and skills in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, and Astronomy, and will include, but not be limited to the sub-topics noted below. The purpose of this program is to provide a general overview of all science and its methodology.
Students will develop an understanding of the scientific method, and its application. Students will learn and will be able to explain the electromagnetic spectrum, the properties of electricity and magnetism, and the history of related theories. Students will learn and be able to use the basic formulae for describing density, motion, work, power, and momentum, and use basic calculations to explain the operation of simple machines. Students will learn classical and modern theories regarding the structure of matter and atoms, and will be able to apply these theories to describe heat and all its properties. Students will discover through laboratory exercises the basic properties of chemical reactions, and will demonstrate an understanding of oxidation-reduction reactions, catalysis, acids and bases.
Students will learn through study and experiment the process of photosynthesis, as well as the classification and taxonomy of the plant and animal kingdoms. Biological laboratory activities will include the use of microscope and centrifuge while the students study microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, ecology and evolution.
Earth Science students will learn the nature of the Earth, including the geology, plate tectonics, erosion, and oceanography. Students will also learn the nature of the Sun-Earth-Moon system, as well as the constellations and other planets.
Students will gain an understanding of atomic structure and theories, the development of nuclear energy, molecular structure, and the environmental issues involved in nuclear power. The curriculum will include both inorganic and organic chemistry. Students will demonstrate an understanding of chemical reactions and their description through chemical equations, acid base reactions, and thermochemistry. Students will develop a basic understanding of Newtonian mechanics, including the concepts of velocity, distance, acceleration, force, gravity, torque, energy, momentum, and inertia. They will all gain a basic understanding of relativity. They will acquire a deepened understanding of the relationship of electricity and magnetism, as well as the nature of light and other electromagnetic radiation, and the properties of waves.
Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate scientific claims and the reasoning for the evolution of scientific thought, and discuss the ethical issues that arise through scientific study. Students will make appropriate use of technology to conduct and present scientific research, including spreadsheet presentation.