PROJECT WILD
This course focuses on natural phenomena relevant to the season. Using birds as a mechanism, students may learn about migration, nesting and feeding habits, bird identification, and more. Field Trip(s) – Montclair Hawk Watch, American Museum of Natural History, Raptor Trust
Science Explorations
What do scientists look for? Patterns, connections, meaning. In this class, students will examine various patterns such as those found on trees, flowers, shells, pine cones, etc. We will explore not only how scientists use patterns, but also how artists use those same patterns.
SCIENCE SYNERGY (also available in CI)
This course is a general overview of the nature of science. Students will engage in productive discourse with their peers, examine their own thoughts and opinions about science, and research various scientists and their contributions to society. (While no official standards exist for this course, Appendix H of the NGSS states that understanding the “Nature of Science” is more that just a practice.) A course like this would beneficial for ALL students to take.
CI JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND SOCIETY
Students conduct independent research on a scientific topic of their choosing. They compose substantial written reports and present reports to the class with hands-on activities. Students also conduct surveys and interviews.
FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
This course emphasizes nutrition using the food pyramid. Students will become literate in reading food labels, identifying food groups, creating a daily menu; discover food preservation techniques and what causes food borne illness, and more. In addition, students volunteer their time one day during the course to serve a meal at Toni’s Kitchen. Field Trip – Toni’s Kitchen
JUNIOR SCIENCE OLYMPIAD
Let’s get ready to compete in all things Science!!! If you love science, love working with teammates and being independent, this 2 cycle course is for you. All types of science topics will be explored in this course. We plan to participate in at least one competition, usually in the Spring. Students will be asked to complete an application form in the Fall. This course is 2 cycles.
ROCKS AND MINERALS
What is the difference between a mineral and a rock? Investigate the properties of minerals and three types of rocks. Use models to observe patterns of erosion, and identify ways that society utilizes rocks and minerals in daily life. Field Trip – Sterling Hill Mining Museum
CI NASA
Students will explore Newton’s Laws of Motion, design an apparatus for the Egg Drop, and possibly launch rockets.
SIMPLE MACHINES
This course includes a large component of exploring force and energy transfer. We will build and test various simple machines and design new machines that will make life easier.
FORENSICS
Forensics is a comprehensive CI course that allows each student to study the basic fundamentals of criminal science by participating in hands on experiments and activities. Activities ranging from finger printing to plaster casting footprints allow each student to examine evidence as a forensic scientist would. Each student will need to rely on his or her knowledge of science and the Scientific Method.
GROW IT
Students investigate what plants need in order to grow, dissect seeds, examine the soil and the creatures within it, hatch chicks and get their hands dirty planting Hillside’s garden. Additional emphasis on integrating literacy and engineering. Field Trip – Community Garden or Duke Farms
WEATHER STUDY
Students will dive into topics such as climate vs. weather, the water cycle, types of weather, emergency preparedness, seasonal change and sun protection.
AMAZING ADAPTATIONS
Students will explore the different tools that animals use for their survival. We will examine how organisms move, eat, and protect themselves. Hands-on investigations and art projects will immerse students in the lives of different kinds of animals. Field Trip – Turtle Back Zoo
AWESOME ASTRONOMY
Students learn about the planets in our solar system, as well as celestial objects such as asteroids, meteoroids, and comets. They are also introduced to galaxies, the Big Bang theory, and key people involved in the study and exploration of space.
ISAAC'S KIDS
Who was Isaac Newton and why was he an important figure in Science? Students will learn about the individual and investigate forces and motion through hands-on experiments.
SCIENCE ALL AROUND US
A survey of three main branches of science – Life, Earth and Physical – using hands-on investigations.
S.T.E.A.M. 3
Calling all scientists and engineers! Unleash your creativity solving design problems using the Makerspace. Emphasis on Engineering Design (NGSS)
S.T.E.A.M 4
Calling all scientists and engineers! Unleash your creativity solving design problems using the Makerspace. Emphasis on Engineering Design (NGSS).
S.T.E.A.M. 5
Calling all scientists and engineers! Unleash your creativity solving design problems using the Makerspace. Emphasis on Engineering Design (NGSS).
THINK TANK
Let’s put our heads together learning about real-world problems and generating possible actions to resolve them. We’ll hear from real professionals about the what, how and why some problems exist and how we can work collaboratively toward solving these problems on a local to global level.
Everyday Heroes in Science
Who’s who among underrepresented populations in science and engineering? Showcase the scientific and engineering contributions of people in their historical context. Students will be able to identify and describe significant contributions of individuals in Science and Engineering fields; investigate the historical and cultural landscape surrounding these contributions; engage in the experiences of individuals presently working in Science and Engineering fields; explore the diversity of Science and Engineering careers.