Science

Teachers 2019-2020

Curriculum

Science 6, Earth and Space Science

This is a year-long, activity-based science course following the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Middle School. The course focuses on these NGSS topics: investigation and experimentation, Earth’s Place in the Solar System, Earth’s Systems (geology, weather, climate), and Earth and Human Activity. There is an emphasis on expository writing through individual and group work. In addition to the disciplinary core ideas, the NGSS cross-cutting concepts and science & engineering practices are explored. 

Science 7, Life Science

This is a year-long, activity-based science course following the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Middle School. The course focuses on these NGSS topics: investigation and experimentation, the structure and process from molecules to organisms; interactions, energy flow and dynamics of ecosystems; inheritance and variation of genetic traits; and the diversity of biological evolution. This course will address the expectations for instruction outlined in the California Healthy Youth Act. This course also supports scientific practices through experimentation, emphasis on scientific reading, writing, and communication, collaboration, and engineering skills through design and testing. In addition to the disciplinary core ideas, the NGSS cross-cutting concepts and science & engineering practices are explored. 

Science 8, Physical Science

This is a year-long, activity-based science course following the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Middle School. The course focuses on these NGSS topics: investigation and experimentation, matter and its interactions, forces and interactions of motion and stability, energy, waves and information technology. Students build their understanding of science phenomena and practice data analysis, math computation, reading, writing and communication skills. In addition to the disciplinary core ideas, the NGSS cross-cutting concepts and science & engineering practices are explored. 

Extension Activities

The Science Fair is a great way for students to develop and apply an interest in science and the scientific method. Students will exercise their curiosity, approach real world problems in a systematic and scientific way, and apply creativity towards questions that interest them. The Science Fair is also a low pressure opportunity for students to present work to a reviewer in a brief non-competitive, informal interview. All JLS students are welcome to participate. For more information, please see the PTA web site.