School Life

Science

Experiencing Science Through Hands-On Learning

Calvary's Elementary Science Program offers students the opportunity to take science learning outside of the classroom and engage with our Elementary Science Specialist in our state-of-the-art elementary science lab, as well as our fantastic outdoor classroom. During their weekly lab times with our science expert, elementary students experience a hands-on environment, with an emphasis on experimentation and lab work, so that students not only develop an academic understanding, but also a love for the "activity" of science. Calvary utilizes Full Option Science System (FOSS) curriculum, in which students learn about recycling paper, plant growth, cell development, energy and electromagnetism, animal habitats, chemical reactions, weather systems and much more. By 4th and 5th Grade, our students are digging deeper into the application of scientific methods, as they quantify their laboratory results and are taught to keep an annual lab journal, all in preparation for the rigors of our Middle School Science Program.

Calvary's Middle School students are engaged in lab-centered science courses in a state-of-the-art facility where they can explore and analyze biology, chemistry, physics, environmental and earth science. In Middle School, our emphasis in science is dedicated to a deep understanding and active student participation to enhance student learning. Calvary has added additional space for the new Maker Space Movement, as it is a joy to see our students creating, building and “making things.”

Highlights

Highlights of the Elementary Science Program include:

  • Building robots
  • Learning scientific "magic" tricks
  • Making "flubber"
  • Racing snails
  • Constructing marble ramps
  • Building kites, parachutes and marshmallow shooters
  • Creating musical instruments
  • Observing insects in obstacle courses

Highlights of the Middle School Science Program include:

  • Use of digital microscopes to view specimens and prepared slides 
  • Fetal pig dissections during body systems unit
  • Use of the bunsen burners to conduct flame tests
  • Building various models of atoms and compounds
  • Study of pH balance, DNA extraction and enzymes
  • Balloon-powered race car project/competition 
  • Science challenge day
  • Oral presentation in front of classmates on scientific discoveries and topics