Lower School Curriculum
Science

Science is the code for understanding the rhythms of our universe. The subject itself portrays how much we are interrelated to other living and non-living things. It is a journey to learn of the magnificence of the world and understanding oneself in relationship to it.

At Philosophy Day School our scientists are surrounded in a hands-on, inquiry-based, environment in and out of the school’s Nature Study Lab. Throughout the year the scientists engage in various units that focus on the areas of life, earth and physical science. Each area provides each child with the time and opportunity to learn age-appropriate concepts and skills and to acquire scientific attitudes and habits of mind. With the creation of their lab book, the scientists begin their study by observing, measuring and identifying properties. They eventually progress to designing controlled experiments.

With the integration of math, language arts, social studies, and art, the children have the experience to make connections to science with other areas of our world. Utilizing the rich resources of the city, field trips to Central Park, zoos, science and natural history museums, bring the experience of the classroom to life. Each lesson provides the opportunity for children to focus on a problem, explore scientific phenomena, reflect on their work, and apply their knowledge to new ideas or situations. The children have experience working in cooperative groups, giving feedback or ideas in class discussions, listening to ideas without judgment and providing information with confidence. Classes in the Lower School Nature Study Lab meet once a week for a period of 45 minutes in grades K through 2 and twice a week in grades 3 and 4.

• To see the beauty and begin to experience the lawfulness of the natural world.
• To teach the use of the scientific methods emphasizing observation, hypothesis, development, data collection and hands-on experimentation.
• To encourage our students to work as young scientists.
• To enhance a child’s inherent love of and fascination with nature by providing an interdisciplinary approach to discovery and knowledge.
• To use the resources of the city to further explore science.

We seek to inspire a scientific investigation where our students can continue to communicate new ideas about life and deepen their understanding of the natural world.