All science classes focus on experiential learning, which takes place in a hands-on environment, where children have fun while learning. The curriculum is based on units of study and parents receive information regarding each unit and the work that students have completed. Parents are encouraged to discuss science studies with their children, not only to stay informed, but also to allow the students an opportunity to teach what they have learned as part of their learning process.
What Gerstell Students Study in Science:
Pre-Kindergarten:
Observing • Measuring • Experimenting
Kindergarten/Pre-First:
Senses • Animals & their Needs • Solutions & Mixtures • Seasons • Weather & the Water Cycle • Trees
First Grade:
Physical Properties • Oceanography • Human Body • Pond Environment & Habitats • Life Cycles
Second Grade:
Animal Classification • Simple Machines • Muscular & Nervous System • Sound • Light & Color
Third Grade:
Earth Science • Magnetism & Electricity • Digestive System • Air Pressure • Solar System
Fourth Grade:
Evolution & Adaptation • Microscopes • Physical & Chemical Properties • Rainforests • Constellations
Fifth Grade:
Weather & Climate • Forces, Heat & Energy • Science Fair • Puberty • Unit of Choice
Students in Grade Five participate in a yearly Science Fair presenting long term experiments and projects.
Leadership in Science
The curriculum reinforces the Gerstell Academy leadership development as students learn the interactions of humans and the environment. Students learn the scientific processes and seek to become better stewards of the earth.
Many projects are develped and studied on campus.
