• BERNER ACADEMIC RESOURCE GUIDE

Students in Science 6 experience a range of topics in physical science.

• The emphasis of the course content is on the foundations of chemistry and physics
• Engineering design and experimentation is represented within the instructional units as well as an introductory unit at the beginning of the year
• Laboratory activities address measurement, the physical and chemical properties of matter, forces and motion related to simple machines and data gathering, representation, and analysis

This is an integrated course that encompasses topics such as:

• Diversity amongst living things
• The scientific method
• Interactions of organisms within their environment
• Basic principles of chemistry and matter
• The processes of photosynthesis and respiration, human systems, genetics evolution and taxonomy
• Hands-on experiments students perform using laboratory equipment such as the microscope

As an accelerated course, students will learn the fundamentals of both life and physical science. Topics covered include:

• The design and performance of inquiry-based investigations through the scientific method
• Atomic structure and chemical bonding,
• The unity and diversity of life
• The energetics of life through photosynthesis and cellular respiration
• Systems of the human body
• Classical and modern genetics
• The principles of evolution and taxonomy
• Thermodynamics and electrostatics
• Hands-on experiments that students will perform and use laboratory equipment such as a microscope that will further enhance the depth of their laboratory experiences

Students investigate how the different parts or spheres of the Earth work together to form one interconnected system that makes our home planet unique. These spheres include the Celestial Sphere, Atmosphere, Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, & Biospheres:

• By analyzing each sphere and the underlying common concepts that are weaved throughout each part
• Students will uncover the natural phenomena and cyclical patterns that affect both living and non-living things
  • Because each sphere is part of the same interconnected system, students will deepen their understanding of cause and effect as any change in one sphere will ultimately affect the other spheres as well
• Topics such as latitude & longitude, topographic maps, day & night, seasons, phases of the moon, layers of the atmosphere, weather, energy, plate tectonics, rocks & minerals and ecology will be covered
• Students will not only gain an appreciation for Earth’s place in space but also come to realize the need to preserve the delicate balance between each sphere so that life can continue to thrive on our home planet

This NYS Regents course explores concepts and principles about the dynamic nature of our planet and its environment in space including geology, meteorology, and astronomy.

• This is the first of a sequence of four NYS Regents courses offered to students
• In addition to a lecture section that meets every day for a single period, a mandatory laboratory class is linked to the lecture class every other day
• Successful completion of 1200 minutes of 29 hands-on lab experience is required before students take the New York State Regents Exam
• Students who pass this class will receive one high school credit

This course introduces students to scientific research through problem solving.

• This is the first of a sequence of research courses offered to students spanning middle to high school
• The course emphasizes critical thinking and the integration of math, science, and technology in a project-oriented research environment
• Students become familiar with laboratory equipment and materials by conducting routine lab procedures
• There is a significant emphasis on developing the skills of analytical reading and writing through the review of scientific findings found in research journals
• The course fosters the ability to conduct both independent and collaborative research and collect, interpret, analyze, and present experimental data
• All work in the class is digital using shared Google docs, slides, and sheets
• The goal is to become fluent enough in conducting and reporting on research experiments to create two long term projects
• Students are required to prepare and present one of these projects at the Discovery Fair in April and attend the Science Symposium in May

This course investigates environmental issues facing our planet today.

• Students acquire the knowledge and understanding of how they can act as a force for positive change
• Students will use a variety of materials to investigate how humans impact the planet
• Throughout the quarter they will explore topics including pollution, climate change, natural resources, and endangered species