Science
Middle School students study Integrated Science, Life Science, and Physical and Earth Science.
All Eighth graders follow the Earth Science Regents curriculum, and take the corresponding examination in June. In 2010, the pass rate was 100%.
Students also take part in the annual Science Fair, submitting individual projects, which are then assessed by an external panel.
From Grade 5 onwards, Science is taught by a specialized teacher, and lessons take place in the school’s science laboratory.
The study of systems forms the core of the initial semester of Grade 4, as the students expand their knowledge of ecosystems, weather systems, and the systems of human body (digestive, respiratory, circulatory, muscular, nervous, immune, and skeletal).
The geology strand of the curriculum contains a more in-depth study of rocks (igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic) and minerals. This is followed by an examination of renewable and non-renewable resources.
The second half of the year finds the students studying physics-related topics: the flow of thermal energy, electricity, the electromagnetic spectrum, and motion, forces and energy.
Grade 5 [awaiting confirmation of curriculum]
The study of Life Science as a discrete topic commences in Grade 6. This starts with detailed work on cells and cell processes, and is followed by an examination of genetics.
Continuing this work on the smallest units that constitute life, the students learn about microorganisms, to include viruses, bacteria and fungi.
Starting with these earliest forms of life, the students move through the evolutionary process, in doing so learning about sponges, worms, mollusks, arthropods, and echinoderms.
The Grade 7 curriculum centers primarily around the study of Physical Science.
An examination of matter (how to describe and measure it, characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases) leads to the introduction of the periodic table of elements.
Learning about the structure of atoms is key to understanding the different properties of matter. Students learn about atomic structure, and the bonds (ionic, covalent) between atoms.
Observing and describing chemical reactions, and work with acids and alkalis, is followed by an introduction to carbon chemistry - organic compounds, hydrocarbons and polymers.
The students take the Regents Examination in Earth Science at the end of Grade 8, and the areas of study undertaken reflect this.
The key areas of study in preparation for this examination are:
- the structure and the composition of the Earth
- continental drift
- volcanoes
- soil formation
- formation and use of natural resources
- oceans, currents and climate
- atmosphere and weather patterns
- the Sun and the solar system