Science and technology are an integral part of our modern world, changing it and shaping it. The goal of the Science Department is to help students acquire basic knowledge, skills, and attitudes of science so they may be better able to serve others through meaningful work and to participate effectively in society. We want our students to become more “scientifically literate” as defined by Project 2061, Science for All Americans, (American Association for the Advancement of Science, p.4):

The scientifically literate person is one who is aware that science, mathematics, and technology are interdependent human enterprises with strengths and limitations; understands key concepts and principles of science; is familiar with the natural world and recognizes both its diversity and unity; and uses scientific knowledge and scientific ways of thinking for individual and social purposes.

We want students to know a certain body of basic knowledge and information about science, to understand inquiry, and to know how it applies to everyday life. Students need to learn how to learn, how to ask important questions, and how to go about answering them. In addition, we want students to develop skills in measuring, using science equipment, lab techniques, observation, communication and documentations, and using calculators and computers. We also want students to develop their ability to judge the accuracy of assertions and opinions of others who claim scientific support for their statements. Through our program, we are trying to foster students’ natural curiosity about the world around them and to encourage consideration of the powerful influence and responsibility humans have in the world. Science teachers make good use of the woods and fields around the school for field study and reflection.

Curriculum Notes

In Kindergarten through 4th Grade, science is often integrated with the work children are doing in other subject areas, and is also taught as a separate subject.

In 5th and 6th grades, students study a diverse range of topics, including: atoms and molecules; soil and weathering; the Earth and its resources; oceans; the universe; matter, energy, sound, and light; acids and bases; and classification, adaptation, and evolution. Seventh graders study Life Science, and eighth graders take Introduction to Physical Science.

The following science classes are available to High School students: Earth Science, Biology, Advanced Biology, Chemistry, Advanced Chemistry, Physics, Advanced Physics, and Environmental Science.

Department Head: Robert Schongalla