7th Grade Science Students will experience an extensive and exploratory-based curriculum, which will challenge and expand their present understanding of the mechanics and energy transfer systems present within our observed universe via critical thinking investigations and discussions. The students will challenge and test the idea that our universe is governed by a series of systems comprised of matter and energy, which are controlled by patterns of interactions, resulting in observable, measurable changes. Experimenting with this philosophy in mind, the students will explore the theories, search for patterns in their data, and ponder the mysteries of Newtonian Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Wave Dynamics, Optics, and Astronomy, and Quantum Mechanics.

We will use the Scientific Method as our guide through a variety of participatory (individual and small group) technology-infused investigations, field observations (abroad on trips and locally in the classroom), experimentations, discussions and presentations challenging our students to discover and define existing scientific knowledge about the physical universe within which we live.

7th Grade Science Students will experience an extensive and exploratory-based curriculum, which will challenge and expand their present understanding of the mechanics and energy transfer systems present within our observed universe via critical thinking investigations and discussions. The students will challenge and test the idea that our universe is governed by a series of systems comprised of matter and energy, which are controlled by patterns of interactions, resulting in observable, measurable changes. Experimenting with this philosophy in mind, the students will explore the theories, search for patterns in their data, and ponder the mysteries of Newtonian Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Wave Dynamics, Optics, and Astronomy, and Quantum Mechanics.

We will use the Scientific Method as our guide through a variety of participatory (individual and small group) technology-infused investigations, field observations (abroad on trips and locally in the classroom), experimentations, discussions and presentations challenging our students to discover and define existing scientific knowledge about the physical universe within which we live.

8th Grade Science Students will synthesize and apply the scientific skills and knowledge they have acquired thus far (earth sciences, chemistry, biological sciences, particle physics, physics, and thermodynamics) through the implementation of the scientific method and scientific debate to provide solutions to a historical scientific mystery and a contemporary scientific challenge.

In the fall, the students will apply their understanding and personal insights to determine a potential Creation Hypothesis for Catalina Island. The students will hypothesize, conduct experiments & design models, analyze & collect experimental and field data (from Catalina Island), use the evidence to select the most probable creation scenario, and defend their position through a scientific forum. They will apply and enhance their knowledge and understanding of geology, ecology, biodiversity, biology, and meteorology throughout this rigorous investigation.

In the spring, the students will explore the feasibility of converting the science classroom into a ‘energy independent zone’ (free of the energy grid). The students will research and design wind turbines and photovoltaic cells in search of the most beneficial, economical, and efficient means of accomplishing such a task. Additionally, they will be challenged to find ways to improve their own energy efficiency at home on a daily basis and create a presentation supporting or refuting the importance and adoption of such activities by the population at large. They will apply and enhance their knowledge and understanding of Newtonian Mechanics, wave dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, circuits, and simple machines throughout these demanding experimentations.

The students will use the Scientific Method as our guide through a variety of participatory (individual and small group) technology-infused investigations, field observations (abroad on trips and locally in the classroom), experimentations, discussions and presentations challenging our students to discover and define existing scientific knowledge about the physical universe within which we live.

8th Grade Science Students will synthesize and apply the scientific skills and knowledge they have acquired thus far (earth sciences, chemistry, biological sciences, particle physics, physics, and thermodynamics) through the implementation of the scientific method and scientific debate to provide solutions to a historical scientific mystery and a contemporary scientific challenge.

In the fall, the students will apply their understanding and personal insights to determine a potential Creation Hypothesis for Catalina Island. The students will hypothesize, conduct experiments & design models, analyze & collect experimental and field data (from Catalina Island), use the evidence to select the most probable creation scenario, and defend their position through a scientific forum. They will apply and enhance their knowledge and understanding of geology, ecology, biodiversity, biology, and meteorology throughout this rigorous investigation.

In the spring, the students will explore the feasibility of converting the science classroom into a ‘energy independent zone’ (free of the energy grid). The students will research and design wind turbines and photovoltaic cells in search of the most beneficial, economical, and efficient means of accomplishing such a task. Additionally, they will be challenged to find ways to improve their own energy efficiency at home on a daily basis and create a presentation supporting or refuting the importance and adoption of such activities by the population at large. They will apply and enhance their knowledge and understanding of Newtonian Mechanics, wave dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, circuits, and simple machines throughout these demanding experimentations.

The students will use the Scientific Method as our guide through a variety of participatory (individual and small group) technology-infused investigations, field observations (abroad on trips and locally in the classroom), experimentations, discussions and presentations challenging our students to discover and define existing scientific knowledge about the physical universe within which we live.

Students will experience a cohesive journey through the scientific systems of particle physics, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, and biology, using a variety of hands-on and technology infused experiments, discoveries, and presentations.

Students will experience a cohesive journey through the scientific systems of particle physics, chemistry, environmental sciences, and biology using a variety of hands-on and technology-infused experiments, discoveries, and presentations.