Middle School Science-STEM

Our universe and everything in it is amazing!  At St Therese School, we encourage students to be curious about the world God created for us.   We devise as many opportunities as possible to “live” science by emphasizing hands-on experience.  Whether it’s tapping maple trees in our DNR Certified woods or conducting a controlled experiment in our science lab, we seek understanding by doing.  These lessons increase the likelihood of retention and comprehension for all our students.

Varied topics, such as monarch butterflies, pollination and bees, maple sap production, and the significance of water are taught across all grade levels.  Computer coding is introduced to all students using web resources such as Code.org and hands-on supplies like Finch robots.  Children’s literature, visits to the school forest and Outdoor Learning Classroom, guest speakers, and field trips are employed at all ages to bring a greater depth of knowledge and understanding to topics taught in class.

Students in Middle School have Science class every day and utilize a textbook series that encompasses physical science in 6th grade, life science in 7th grade, and earth science in 8th grade. In 7th grade, the class travels to YMCA Camp Widjiwagan for a week to explore the beautiful area of Ely, MN and to participate in a variety of nature based small and large group activities. As 8th graders, each student completes and presents a research project on a STEM topic of their choice, or conducts and presents a controlled experiment of their choice.