Science Courses

Science

Middle School requirement: General Science, Life Science, and Earth Science

Department Philosophy: In the science courses at ESA, science is taught not only as a body of useful knowledge, but also as a method by which we find answers. Students learn science most effectively through discovery-based lessons in which they interact with each other and with teachers to solve problems and to answer questions. Teachers at ESA use the Socratic method in laboratory experiences, field exercises, and in class to encourage student interest and participation. By engaging students one-on-one and in small groups, teachers can address each student's ideas and questions. This method of teaching not only encourages each student to be actively involved in his or her education, but it also fosters academic self-confidence and maturity.

General Science

The purpose of this course is to help students develop an intuitive understanding of physical processes that occur all around us. Students will develop their ability to think critically by applying the scientific method to challenges presented in class. Students will also continue to develop research skills to support their investigations. Major skills to be covered will include but are not limited to: using the Scientific Method, measuring in SI Units, reading and understanding science-related articles, researching using internet and library resources, writing lab reports, presenting information to the class, and graphing.

Life Science

In this class, students explore and critically question what defines something as living. In pursuit of this, students learn about and examine the structures that make up living things. The course focuses on viruses, bacteria, protozoa, cells, plants, animal groups, human organ systems, and sex education. Throughout the year students participate in discussions based on short readings that deal with some of the most fundamental topics in science. Students develop their observation, communication, and critical research skills through laboratory work, research projects, and group assignments.

Earth Science

In 8th Grade Earth Science, we go on a journey through our world and universe. We explore the wonders of cosmology, including stars, galaxies, planets, moons, and black holes! We study the extraordinary scale of the universe, gain an understanding of the miraculous nature of our planet’s existence, and ponder the distant past and very, very, very distant future of the universe. We learn how light is used to study the cosmos, and how light interacts with our earthly surroundings to create a huge variety of visual phenomena that we experience day in and day out! We learn about the forces at work on the Earth itself, its atmosphere, weather patterns, the seasons, the water cycle, extreme natural disasters, and more! We conclude with a study of geology, including earthquakes, tectonic plates, tsunamis, and beyond! All topics of study in this course are supplemented by extensive activities, projects, live demonstrations, and lots and lots of scientifically detailed drawing. There is a large focus on experiential learning in this class. My goal is to stretch your minds and instill in you a strong connection to our world and our universe.