Science
Student Support Services
In Middle School science, students explore life, earth and physical science topics through inquiry-based experiences and project-based learning. A big picture focus on broader science skills with regular feedback and student reflection on skill growth over time connects disciplines, topics and grade level experiences.
In the Middle School, the student support specialists are accessible to all students. They facilitate peer tutoring, as well as individual and group study sessions. The faculty also provides organizational assistance, encourages the development of study skills and test-taking strategies, and educates students about assistive technologies. Student support specialists are available throughout the school day via scheduled appointments, office hours, and especially during students’ structured study periods and linguistics and academic skills classes. Student support is designed to encourage independence and self-advocacy. Students can be referred by teachers, advisors, parents, and administrators as needed.
Science 6 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: None
Science 8 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: Science 7 or equivalent
Students explore the physical world of atoms and molecules, chemical reactions, heat, magnetism and electricity, light, sound, motion and force, as well as flight and rocketry. Throughout the year a wide variety of individual and group projects provide students the opportunity to make connections and improve their understanding of science. Text: Pearson Interactive Science: Physical Science Student Worktext Book
This course introduces students to the integrated concepts of earth science: astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, and geology. The interdisciplinary character of the earth sciences is emphasized through the human environmental impact on our world’s resources. Skills are developed to help the students make the transition to Upper School science courses. Text: Pearson Interactive Science: Life Science Student Worktext Book Eighth Grade Celebration of Science Our eighth grade students embark on a self-directed environmental science research project during one quarter of the school year. This project is a platform wherein students pose a scientific question, conduct relevant research, develop and conduct an experiment to test a theory, analyze results, and present findings. The purpose of this project is to help students apply the skills they have learned in the Middle School science program to lay the foundation for more comprehensive, self-directed research projects, like the Upper School Academic Research Program.
Structured Study One Semester (Offered First, Second, and Third Trimesters) Prerequisites: Recommendation by Student Support Services The Middle School curriculum is supported through instruction to build skill connections and confidence in students. Support for core classes can include a review of concepts, review of assignment expectations, preparation for assessments, and time to work with the ability to receive guidance. Time management and planning for assignment completion will continually be modeled and prompted. Written expression will be enhanced using a workshop model in conjunction with the students’ English, science, and social studies classes using mini-lessons and reciprocal feedback for editing and revisions. Technology applications will be embedded throughout the class. Students will use technology tools that aid in the organization of ideas, organization of essay content, grammar, spelling, and note-taking.
Linguistics & Academic Skills Full Year (Three Trimesters)
Prerequisites: Recommendation by Student Support Services This course reinforces the Middle School curriculum by building reading, writing, and academic skills to boost student confidence and readiness for future coursework. Students will receive direct instruction in reading accuracy and fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Writing instruction follows a workshop model aligned with students’ core classes, using mini-lessons, rubrics, and peer feedback. Technology is integrated to support organization, grammar, and note-taking. In eighth grade, the focus shifts to independent writing across subjects. The course also builds English vocabulary through Greek and Latin roots, supports math with concept review and problem-solving, and promotes time management and organization.
Science 7 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: Science 6 or equivalent
This course will help students recognize the critical role of science in their lives and in today’s world by integrating concepts from the realms of life science. Areas of discovery that this course will include are cell theory, classification of living things, cellular structures and functions, cellular division, levels of organization in living things, and systems of the human body. Text: Pearson Interactive Science: Life Science Student Worktext Book
2026-2027 ULS Curriculum Guide
50
51 Middle School
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker