Science
Philosophy
The Science Department curriculum is informed by research and best practices for teaching girls. It intentionally builds on a girl’s innate inquisitiveness and creativity using teaching methods that promote innovation and focus on experiential and collaborative learning. Beginning in Lower School, girls are introduced to basic principles of science using an inquiry-based approach, which promotes a love of science at an early age. During these early years, they also begin to explore technology, design-thinking, and engineering. As our students progress through Middle and Upper School they are challenged to experiment, to analyze data, and to think critically as concepts become more abstract. Mathematics, as a tool of scientists, becomes a more significant aspect of the curriculum. Opportunities such as robotics, independent research, and intensive studies allow our students to explore their interests more deeply. Ultimately the goal of the Science curriculum is to provide our students with not only the foundation to continue in science as a career, but to provide all girls with the knowledge and commitment to be respectful, appreciative, problem-solving stewards of the world in which they live.
Objectives
1. Students will be able to make observations, pose scientific questions, investigate, collect and analyze data objectively and draw conclusions.
2. Students will be able to recognize patterns, cycles, systems, relationships, and changes that are found in all aspects of science.
3. Students will be able to describe and interpret scientific knowledge in narrative, graphical, and mathematical forms.
4. Students will be able to use technology and engineering for scientific purposes.
5. Students will develop self-confidence as scientists, using the language and skills of the discipline.
6. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of the concepts of life science, physical science, and earth science.
7. Students will understand the relationships between historical and current scientific developments and society.
8. Students will have a curiosity about and understanding of science in their daily lives.
9. Students will develop a science literacy that will enable them to act responsibly as global citizens.
Located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, St. Catherine’s School is a private, all-girls pre-K, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school. We provide a well-rounded educational experience for girls from communities across Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and all of central Virginia. St.Catherine’s all-girls educational experience is rooted in more than a century of history and tradition. From our revolutionary past to our dynamic present, St. Catherine’s has always focused on preparing students for a boundless future.
