Natural Sciences

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The Adolescent Program approach to the sciences seeks to build upon the wonder and awe that comes from encountering the beauty of the natural world. It is our goal that students will, under our direction, be inspired to move from this place of wonder, to explore further, gather knowledge, uncover patterns, and draw connections between the disciplines. In time, we hope that this will naturally lead students to a love and appreciation for the marvels of our universe. Ultimately, the end of our science studies will be the development of a sense of gratitude for all the gifts of nature and the natural response of a call to life-long stewardship. These courses are intended to continue the approach of focusing intently on one aspect of the world and “going deep” into the study of it. As these courses string together the study of many aspects of the universe, a scientific mind is developed, one accustomed to careful observation, intelligent inquiry, and contemplative appreciation for the wonders of creation.

Work in the classroom focuses not only on science concepts, but also on the skills of scientific study, including observation, analysis, inquiry, record-keeping, and science communication. Outside of and parallel to their time in the classroom, all AP students engage in hands-on work in the community (farming, gardening, care for animals, beekeeping, work in the kitchen, and wood and metal shops), which deepens their understanding of and appreciation for the concepts learned.

Science courses in the Adolescent Program Middle School provide an orientation to the physical and life sciences. The goal is to establish a sound introductory understanding of all relevant science concepts and skills as a base for our high school science courses to build upon. Each course also includes interactive experiments and a final project through which the wonder of the adolescent is cultivated and channeled into self-motivated scientific exploration. Middle school and high school science teachers remain in regular communication to make the transition from middle school to high school as seamless as possible.

Middle School Life Sciences offered: Goats, Chickens, Bees, Botany, Local Flora and Fauna, Introduction to Anatomy.

Middle School Physical Sciences offered: Introduction to Chemistry, Introduction to Physics, and Simple Machines.

Middle School students are required to take a total of six courses over two years, four life sciences and two physical sciences.

The Adolescent Program High School science courses interweave rigorous, individualized instruction with a higher-level application of skills, preparing students for success in college science. Students gain experience and training in independent scientific inquiry through a yearly Independent Research Project– project creation and proposal, literature review, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of results – with the mentorship of faculty and other experts. Experiences like field trips, presentations from visiting scientists, and hands-on lab work are provided throughout the course to promote active engagement with concepts within the classroom and in the world at large. Finally, high school courses include discussions of ongoing or historical dilemmas in the scientific community, allowing students to grapple with the need for the stewardship of scientific knowledge.