Science Curriculum

Sixth Grade - Earth Science

This comprehensive study of earth science highlights the order and beauty of the physical world while reflecting the attributes of God, its Creator. Students are introduced to scientific processing skills like observation, inquiry, and experimentation as the means of discovering the truth of creation of all life by the God of the Bible. Students learn to apply the scientific method by posing questions, designing and conducting simple science experiments using appropriate lab equipment and measuring tools, and predicting, observing, and clearly recording results. The course culminates with a unit that will help students provide scientific and Biblical evidence for the origin of the universe. Additional concepts include:

• Interaction of living and nonliving things in an ecosystems and the movement of matter and energy through these ecosystems
• Natural resources and the environmental issues that impact these resources
• Composition and structure of Earth
• Theory of Plate Tectonics, volcanoes, and earthquakes
• The components of the atmosphere and the formation of weather systems
• The role of water in earth’s processes.

Seventh Grade - Life Science

This introductory study of living organisms highlights the order, beauty, and diversity of the natural world while reflecting the attributes of God, its Creator. Students integrate the scientific processing skills of observation, inquiry, and experimentation as the means of discovering the truth of creation. Students develop skills related to the formulation and testing of hypotheses, collection and analysis of data and results, and utilization of standard lab equipment. Each fall, student and faculty anticipation for the week-long expedition to Jekyll Island for on-site learning and application of concepts related to ocean biology and barrier island ecology begins as they look forward to the trip each spring. Additional concepts include:

• Cell structure and function
• Cellular hereditary and genetic traits
• Classification of living organisms
• Major kingdoms
• Structure and function of major human organ systems
• Exposure to current evidence from creation scientists and intelligent design movement

Eighth Grade - Physical Science

This course is a broad survey that introduces the general categories of matter and energy. It serves as a precursor to the subjects of chemistry and physics taught at the high school level. Students learn how the laws that govern matter and energy reflect God’s perfect order and design throughout the universe. Students continue to develop critical thinking and mathematical skills through a traditional problem solving approach. Additional concepts include:

• Measurement, matter, and how it changes
• Basic chemistry including molecular structure and bonding, motion forces, and energy
• Relationship between science and mathematics