Our science curriculum is rooted firmly in the scientific method, which begins with a question and ends with an answer. This model is especially well-suited for children whose natural curiosity compels them to explore the world around them and seek answers. Teachers work closely with children to help them master the process of inquiry and investigation that is key to the scientific method. Children are guided as they ask questions, do research, make observations and formulate and test their hypotheses.

In-depth studies of Physical Science, Life Science and Earth Science take place in a flexible classroom environment that can be reconfigured to respond to the direction of the investigations. Children have supervised access to learning materials that enhance the effectiveness of experiments designed to provide insight into the mysteries of our world and how it works.

Younger children perform experiments using tools such as balances, magnifying glasses, thermometers and (most importantly) their five senses. The older children will work with more complex tools including spring scales, microscopes, stopwatches, Bunsen burners - whatever a particular investigation requires. Children also keep science journals for note taking, posing questions, stating their hypotheses, stepping out investigations, listing necessary materials and recording outcomes and conclusions.

Fundamental scientific topics will be introduced to children and developed upon with increasing complexity as they move from grade to grade, building on the skills and knowledge that they have learned. For example, young children's study of water's liquid and solid states leads to later study of molecules, atoms and the periodic table. Early explorations with magnets lead to more challenging explorations of electromagnetism and its critical role in machinery and energy production. We believe that this kind of progression promotes a deeper understanding in developing minds.

Special emphasis is placed on the study of the life cycles and environments of plants and animals. They learn about the food chain, including the roles of herbivores, carnivores and decomposers (and related lessons about our respiratory and digestive systems, and the role of nutrition for a healthy life). They become familiar with the characteristics, flora and fauna of the world's deserts, tundra, grasslands, wetlands, forests, jungles and ocean, and the complex relationships between these ecosystems.

Frequent field trips give children opportunities to interact with nature and pursue their scientific investigations outside the classroom. We make numerous visits to the community gardens and green markets in our neighborhood and take day-trips to nearby fruit and vegetable farms. Outings to the American Museum of Natural History (and other museums) offer children chances to learn more about our planet's biodiversity, the Earth's geology and fossil record, the stars and planets, and much, much more.

We continuously look for ways to use new technologies to enhance and extend our scientific explorations and provide insight into where we have come from, and where we may be heading.