SCIENCE

Philosophy

The goal of science education is to develop scientifically literate students who understand and appreciate the ways in which science, technology, and society influence one another.

Scientific literacy requires a knowledge base of facts, concepts, and systems, as well as processing skills that will enable the students to learn effectively and think logically. Thus students can utilize their knowledge of science in everyday decision-making processes.

The Science Department of South Middle School works diligently to present each and every student with positive and motivational learning experiences throughout their three years at South Middle. We believe that every student can learn and practice the Next Generation Science Standards while experiencing improved self- confidence. Our hope is that each student will develop a positive attitude towards science and technology as they progress through our hands-on program of instruction and move toward their high school and college experience. Along the way, we will provide many opportunities for our students to participate in a variety of clubs and science competitions that will provide additional challenges for those who seek them.

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Course Descriptions

Science 6

The sixth grade science curriculum introduces students to the scientific process. This includes the practice of measuring skills with the use of laboratory equipment. Additionally, students study the basic concepts in Chemistry and Physical Science. This course provides a strong foundation for all future science courses. Lab activities and an ecology field trip serve to reinforce science skills and content.

Integrated Science 7

Seventh grade curriculum introduces students to topics in biology and chemistry. Course work covers life functions, cell structure, photosynthesis, respiration, classification, genetics and evolution, and provides a strong foundation for the Biology curriculum students will cover in high school. Lab activities and a field trip to the Dolan DNA Learning Center serve to reinforce science skills and content.

Regents Earth Science

Regents Earth Science is a high school course offered to all eighth-grade students. The course is designed to provide students with a clear understanding of Earth processes, integrating major concepts in astronomy, geology and meteorology and linking them to daily events. New York State Department of Education requires students to complete 1200 minutes of lab work to receive Regents credit. The course meets every day with a lab period scheduled on alternate days. The final exam is the Earth Science Regents examination. The final average from this course and the Regents exam grade will be included on the high school transcript and is included in the total cumulative high school average. Students who successfully complete all course requirements receive one high school science credit.

Science Research (Grade 8 Elective)

This course provides students with the opportunity to actively research science topics that interest them while learning important research and technical skills, including those used by forensic scientists, microbiologists and geneticists. The research methods taught during the course support participation in the various science competitions in which research students are expected to compete. Students will learn how to write abstracts of their work and will summarize current science research.

2-3 Periods Per Week – Full Year

Summer Resources

Want to get ahead?

Want to get ahead?

Over the summer many students want to learn more and prepare for the next school year. We are here to help with some resources that will provide students with interactive and adaptive learning resource that will challenge each student. The resources from CK-12 will provide students with the major concepts in life science or earth science, so that they can start the year running!

Grade 6 going into Grade 7 Life Science Course: https://flexbooks.ck12.org/cbook/life-science-prep/

(please skip Ecology, since it was covered in grade 6 science)

Grade 7 going into Grade 8 Regents Earth Science Course: https://flexbooks.ck12.org/cbook/earth-science-prep

Extra-Curriculars

Science Olympiad

Science Olympiad

Science Olympiad is a science and technology club where students test their skill and knowledge in 23 STEM events in specialties such as engineering, coding, technology, cartography, earth science, biology, forensics, physics, ornithology, astronomy, and environmental science. For example, students prepare engineering devices such as the Ping-Pong Parachute. In this event students build a rocket that must launch into the air and then return an egg back to the ground unbroken (using a student made parachute system). Further students compete in academic and lab events, such as Crime Busters where teams analyze forensics data and solve a crime.

During this season we are looking to return stronger, smarter and more competitive than ever. Our goal is to win the Nassau County Title and place in the top 5 at States. The Science Olympiad makes science a team sport as students work towards a goal together. It makes science social as it is in the real world! The experiences from the Science Olympiad could be the spark that allows students to become scientists and engineers to solve the biggest problems of the future! Try-outs will be held early in the fall!

New York State Science Olympiad Page

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