The new freshman science experience provides a wide range of opportunities for incoming ninth graders. Building on what was learned in middle school, students engage in a course of studies taken from both the biology and the physical science curriculum. Working in heterogeneous classes, students build upon what they know about their place within the environment.
Key areas from the environmental science strands traditionally explored and covered during sophomore biology are a primary focus in this course. Physical science concepts involving the interaction of matter are developed and students gain a fuller understanding of nutrient cycles and the connections between the biotic and abiotic components of the environment. Experimental design, data collection and its appropriate representation, and drawing appropriate conclusions are stressed.
In this freshman science course, students take the central role as thinkers and workers. Students will work independently and in collaborative groups. The goal of this course is an integration of content, skills and attitudes that introduce freshmen to the rigorous learning opportunities in science.