Curriculum: Science at the School for Children

Science in the Upper School

The Upper School science program is based on direct observation of phenomena that are considered appropriate for each age group. Each topic of study builds upon the experiences and knowledge of the one that precedes it, and is logically related to the one that follows. The program consists of a series of lab courses investigating various aspects of the natural world. Students design and work on experiments to answer questions raised in class. Mathematics is an important tool in this work; students make many measurements and analyze the data they collect. The culmination of each investigation is the result of analyzing data from experiments and making meaningful connections and generalizations. The Upper School makes extensive use of technology, including graphing calculators, CBLs (calculator-base labs), digital cameras, microscopes, flex cams, computer-generated spreadsheets, computer Internet research, and electronic balances.

During the winter, students work on their Science Expo projects, which are independent investigations into a questions related to their class!=s curriculum topic. This work is done in small groups and involves a number of steps: designing and refining an experiment to answer a question; collecting data; analyzing data; drawing conclusions based on this analysis; and presenting these findings at Science Expo.

10/11s

The 10/11s study Environmental Science, the relationships between organisms and their environment. They examine the life cycle of plants as they explore the role of pollinators and the adaptation of plant species in order to attract pollinators. Animal adaptation and behavior is studied during the second half of the year. Students examine the form and function of skulls and how this relates to the lifestyle of the animal.

11/12s

The 11/12s' study of Earth Science is designed to develop an understanding and appreciation of Earth as a system. The course concentrates on those aspects of earth science that can be studied through observation, laboratory experiments, or the use of models. The topics include: the sun as a source of energy; the role of the atmosphere in our planet's radiation balance; the properties of water that support the existence of life on and under the earth; and the importance of maintaining unpolluted water sources. Students explore the human impact on the atmosphere and on groundwater. They search for the best solutions to environmental problems and examine the political realities of effecting change.

12/13s

Life Science is a course designed to investigate heredity as the mechanism by which evolution occurs and to develop an understanding of the cellular basis of all living things. Students learn about the principles that control heredity by crossing two kinds of fruit flies and following their traits through three generations. This investigation is a lengthy one and leads students to the same conclusions that Gregor Mendel reached in his study of pea plants in the nineteenth century. The class then pursues a study of cells and their components, and the role of DNA in reproduction.

13/14s

Introductory Physical Science is a course that focuses on the properties of matter. Through their laboratory investigations, students gather evidence, make observations, and draw conclusions about the basic nature of matter. The accumulated evidence from their year's work explains the need for and the rationale behind the atomic model of matter. As lab work is an integral part of this course, students develop lab techniques, organizational skills, and writing skills in producing well-reasoned lab reports. In addition, they apply mathematical skills in a scientific context.