Science promotes curiosity and a sense of wonder, encourages lifelong exploration, and provides a foundation for understanding the natural world. Science courses promote hands-on learning in an environment that fosters inquiry. Through scientific investigation, students expand their knowledge to better understand and explain the phenomena they observe in the world around them.

Washington state’s Commission on Student Learning has defined goals for all students in science.

“The important thing is not to stop questioning”

Albert Einstein

 

Learning in science depends on actively doing science. Active engagement in hands-on, minds-on science learning experiences enables students to make personal sense of the physical world and to solve problems. Toward these ends, the Essential Academic Learning Requirements were developed:

 

1. The student understands and uses scientific concepts and principles.

To meet this standard, the student will:

• Use properties to identify, describe, and categorize substances, materials, and objects, and use characteristics to categorize living things.

• Recognize the components, structure, and organization of systems and the interconnections within and among them.

• Understand that interactions within and among systems cause changes in matter and energy.

 

2. The student knows and uses the skills and processes of science and technology.

To meet this standard, the student will:

• Develop abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry.

• Apply science knowledge and skills to solve problems or meet challenges.

 

3. The student understands the nature and contexts of science and technology.

To meet this standard, the student will:

• Understand the nature of scientific inquiry.

• Know that science and technology are human endeavors, interrelated to each other, to society, and to the workplace.

 

Science is required for all students in grades 6 through 10. Course offerings are aligned with and support mastery of the Essential Academic Learning Requirements.

The minimum graduation requirement is two years of science in grades 9-12. Students are required to take science in grades 9-10 in preparation for Certificate of Mastery Endorsement in science.  Students are encouraged to enroll in additional science electives to maximize post-high school options and to provide a foundation for lifelong learning in the sciences.

 

In Grade 9 students take Biology. In the tenth grade students select from Intro- Physics/Chemistry, Chemistry or Physics (please note math prerequisites and plan accordingly). Successful completion of science courses in grades 9-10 will fulfill the high school graduation requirement, but students are encouraged to enroll in science courses all four years to maximize learning possibilities and to be well-prepared for further education and the workplace.