Science

The goals of both our Middle and Upper School science programs center around scientific inquiry, communication in science, knowledge and understanding of science, processing data, how science affects society and the world, behaviors and attitudes, and quality of work produced.

Our Middle School science program takes an integrated approach to learning about science. Each grade is exposed to several fields of science including biology, chemistry, and physics as well as some astronomy, geology, and ecology. Students assume the role of scientists as they learn the content through the practice of skills that will be helpful in any future science courses.

Our Upper School science courses are subject-specific and focus on content as students fine-tune their scientific investigation skills. Our courses also develop the students' quantitative reasoning skills, thus reinforcing and applying skills from mathematics classes. Above all, students have the opportunity to question and search for evidence supporting scientific ideas. The program exposes students to material relevant to all students, including those planning to continue to study science after high school and those who are not.

All students in both divisions are exposed to multiple modes of instruction: laboratory experiments, direct instruction, class discussion, projects, and written communication. Our programs include multiple forms of formative and summative assessment: lab write-ups, small and large group challenges, projects, presentations, homework questions, self/peer/instructor evaluations, quizzes, and exams.


Faculty

Puma Pride:


“I always appreciated the challenges put forth at University Prep. There was always the expectation of success.”    Ben, Class of 2006