Science

The theme for Science 6, “Cycles of Matter and Energy,” is central to each of our three trimester-long units. Students study ecology in a life science unit during Trimester 1. Physical science is the focus for Trimester 2 as the students investigate the properties of waves, sound and light. During Trimester 3, students are introduced to earth science in a unit designed around our global use of water as a natural resource. Throughout the year, students continue to hone their observational and critical thinking skills. They explore each unit of study through hands-on activities which also emphasize the development of more science-specific skills such as data collection and analysis.

Science 7 focuses on scientific problem-solving and examining how living organisms interact with the nonliving world. The curriculum highlights the qualities of the modern scientist including laboratory skills, research methods, communication, and collaboration. During Trimester I, students learn how to utilize lab equipment safely, metric measurement, and scientific problem-solving. In their independent research project, students select an article of interest and make connections to science in the real world. Life Science is studied in Trimester 2, with an emphasis on how organisms evolved over time. During Trimester 3, students explore physical science, and the year culminates with a collaborative, original laboratory experiment. Throughout the year, students continue to analyze qualitative and quantitative data in hands-on laboratory experiments.

The theme for Science 8, “The Nature of Matter and Energy and Its Connection to Our World,” builds upon the Form I course. The main focus for the first half of the year is chemistry with a particular emphasis on the atom, Periodic Table of Elements, and the interaction of elements. During the remainder of the year, students apply their knowledge of chemistry to the study of cells and cell processes. Throughout the year, students conduct independent labs and group projects. A highlight is the Trimester 2 interdisciplinary project in which students research an ordinary object, study its chemistry, and determine its sustainability. Students continue to develop their scientific writing, oral presentation, communication, and collaboration skills in preparation for their transition to Upper School science courses.