Science
Students become immersed in science in the Lower School via investigative and exploratory units of study.
In Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, students have ample discovery-oriented space in which to become scientists in outdoor classroom experiences, in their own classrooms, and through our discovery-oriented science program. In grades one through four, the more formal Lower School science room provides an environment in which students experience a distinct program where they can delve into more extensive and long-term projects. Highlights of the science classroom include the saltwater touch tank and the interactive sand table. Additionally, the extensive school grounds allow for meaningful scientific observations and explorations through outdoor activities, including the study of campus trees. The trails and woods on our outer campus allow students to further experience and appreciate the natural world.
Essential Questions:
What are the different categories and systems of study within the world of science?
How am I connected to the world of science through observations, experiments, and discussions/recordings?
How can I identify and solve local science questions and challenges, while making connections o global areas of interest and/or concern?
Skills and Enduring Understandings:
The Lower School science program effectively begins with integrations, investigations, and units in the homeroom classrooms. From there, science is also a distinct Explorations subject area, taught via two class periods per week in grades 1 through 4 and one period per week in Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten.
With ample discovery-oriented space in the homeroom classrooms and with dedicated Lower School science classroom spaces, science is literally and figuratively a high-interest, hands-on experience in our Division. In all grades, an emphasis is made to incorporate a wide range of science topics—from the physical world to the natural world with many exciting stops in between. An important goal is to help students think of themselves as active and involved young scientists. Ultimately, students learn of the important goals that science is ever-present and that it is an exciting and important topic of study in which they can play a significant lifetime role.
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