Middle school science students are exposed to curriculum that consists of topics from the life and physical sciences. The study of life science focuses on the characteristics of living things, their structure, functions, and relationships. The basic information contained in physical science concerns matter and energy. Embedded within each of these scientific areas students learn to use the scientific process through hands-on activities and labs. Students enhance their ability to problem solve by engaging in experiments that answer questions utilizing the scientific method. They also learn how to share their results by presenting evidence coupled with a conclusion.
 

Students revisit concepts on more complex levels presented with increasing detail and sophistication. Village Glen’s philosophy is that students not only gain an understanding of the facts and theories of science, but they learn the importance of scientific knowledge for solving problems in their environment. Students develop a skill set that includes: data-gathering, measuring, classifying, organizing, predicting, and problem solving. Students are encouraged to develop scientific attitudes that reflect an open-minded approach, interest in the experimental method, and willingness to challenge questionable information. An appreciation of science is important as students unlock the mysteries of the world and expand upon their understanding of natural occurrences.
 

Students are guided to independently apply their reasoning skills to an annual science project. The projects is displayed at the Science Fair/Open House where students demonstrate their knowledge of the scientific method.
 

7th Grade
In 7th Grade, students focus on Life Science. They learn that all living organisms are composed of cells, from just one to many trillions, whose details usually are visible only through a microscope. They learn that a typical cell of any organism contains genetic instructions that specify its traits, and that those traits may be modified by environmental influences. Students learn that biological evolution accounts for the diversity of species developed through gradual processes over many generations.
 
 

8th Grade
In 8th Grade, students focus on Physical Science. They learn that the velocity of an object is the rate of change of its position, and that unbalanced forces cause change in velocity. Students study the Periodic Table of Elements, and learn that each of the more than 100 elements of matter have distinct properties and a distinct atomic structure. They learn that principles of chemistry underlie the functioning of biological systems. Scientific progress is made by asking meaningful questions and conducting careful investigations. Scientific examination and experimentations are used as a basis for understanding and addressing content.