Science

There are two complementary and equally important components in the Upper School science program at Burke’s. The first is that scientific concepts, relevant to the students’ own curiosity about the world, are presented in a hands-on, thought-provoking way. The second is that throughout the presentation of scientific concepts is woven an underpinning of learning skills to support individual progress towards becoming a more effective, active and organized student.

Science is taught by two science specialists; one teaches fifth and sixth grade science and the other seventh and eighth grade science. At all levels, our science program is laboratory based with hands on projects and experiences through which our students master skills, concepts and scientific inquiry.

The curriculum in the fifth grade includes the following: use of the scientific method of inquiry; properties of, changes in, and atomic structure of matter; use of the microscope; human anatomy and physiology; human growth and development from conception through puberty to adulthood; hygiene and nutrition.

The sixth grade curriculum covers the following: the nature of science, origin and composition of the Earth; plate tectonics; geologic history; paleontology; evolution, the diversity of life on Earth, and ecology.

In seventh grade, the students continue their hands-on study of science. Particular emphasis is placed on learning the safe and proper use of the equipment in the lab. Frequent lab experiments provide opportunities for instruction on the scientific method, following directions, collecting and interpreting data, graphing, hypothesizing, and making appropriate conclusions. Science skills such as using a balance and reading a thermometer are integrated throughout the curriculum, as is lab safety.

Eighth grade science focuses on careful investigation of the physical world and on accurately communicating the results of that investigation. Students will explore many phenomena and perform experiments to try to explain their observations. Particular emphasis is placed on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students are expected to bring with them from seventh grade a strong background in using the scientific method to solve problems and in the proper and safe use of lab equipment.