Science

Middle School students are required to take four years of science. It is a lab-oriented curriculum that focuses on understanding methods of inquiry. At all levels, students perform experiments and engage in laboratory work, making use of the Middle School and Upper School lab areas. Students practice and refine methods in formulating hypotheses, collecting and organizing data, interpreting results, and drawing conclusions.  The curriculum is designed to highlight interrelationships of biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.  As a whole, the science curriculum seeks to instill and support within the students a sense of wonder and appreciation of the natural world; a confidence and inclination to ask questions and explore new ideas; and an ability to employ scientific methods in seeking answers to how our world works.

Because Middle School science integrates aspects of all the disciplines within any given unit of study (earth science with chemistry, physics with biology), teachers rely on a variety of resources to complement the curriculum. Text book “modules” (subject specific texts rather than surveys) are used throughout the Middle School science program, along with films, field trips, materials developed by Calhoun’s science teachers, and an eye toward current events. Local field excursions to Riverside Park, Central Park and to the American Museum of Natural History are integral to the hands-on experience of science at Calhoun.

Fifth Grade

INTRODUCTION to ASTRONOMY and EARTH SCIENCE

In the fall, fifth grade students begin learning about astronomy by identifying different phases of the moon.  They keep a monthly calendar and note the phases of the moon each night.  The students also participate in numerous investigations to understand how the moon's gravity affects their own activity here on earth.  Through readings and projects, fifth grade students explore the idea of space and time travel. 

During the spring semester, fifth graders study earth science.  Some topics may include the causes and consequences of earthquakes, or weather and climate.  Recent studies have included ways of measuring and recording the weather, as well as the connection between earthquakes and volcanos.

Sixth Grade

BACTERIA, PLANTS and ANIMALS

In the fall, sixth grade students begin studying unique characteristics of living organisms ranging from microorganisms to blue whales. The five great kingdoms of organisms are discussed, including their structures, behaviors and roles. Students learn the proper use of the microscope so that they can prepare slides when studying the structure of plant and animal cells. An introduction to the plant world is covered as well as the processes of pollination, fertilization and reproduction. 

During the second semester, sixth graders learn about the world of animals.  Some studies may include the structure of fish through fish dissection.  Other recent studies have included the world of frogs and toads and insect metamorphosis.  Through writing, small group work and presentations, students share the knowledge gained from their exploration and research.

Seventh and Eighth Grade

Seventh and eighth grade science consolidates and expands upon the foundation built in fifth and sixth grade. The curriculum is built around the scientific method, with the goal of teaching students to formalize their thought processes. By the end of Middle School science, students should be able to apply the scientific method rigorously to the questions they encounter in everyday life as well as use their reasoning and problem-solving abilities to examine the role of science today.

Seventh Grade: As they enter seventh grade, students focus on the investigative process and learn to document their findings.  In the fall, they do this while studying DNA through a variety of group and independent projects such as collecting a DNA portfolio.  In the spring, students continue to hone their investigative skills by studying the planets' internal forces.  While studying topics such as plate tectonics, continental drift and the geological time scale, students have the opportunity to conduct experiments, build structures and make observations about the world around them.

Eighth Grade: Through inquiry-based study and class discussions, eighth grade students explore the world of energy and matter by investigating such topics such as mass, force and motion.  They also study simple machines and basic chemistry through the study of atoms, protons and neutrons.  Students work collaboratively on a number of hands-on projects such as designing and creating machines.  They also explore big questions and theories such as, "How are mass, force, and acceleration related?" and "What are wormholes and parallel dimensions?"