Science & Social Studies

All grade levels (starting with Preschool) enjoy science investigations and social studies units on a regular basis throughout the school year. Hands-on learning and creative explorations involve students in the wonders of the universe.

Our 1st-2nd graders learn about magnetic theory, layers of the Earth and Space, climate and weather, Human and Botanical anatomy, etc; have many opportunities for cooperative group work, small group planning, and leadership skills through social studies projects like designing their own town, forming a mini society, learning Colorado and World history and culture.

In 3rd-4th grade, science and social studies are taken to new heights with heart and eye dissections in science to learn anatomy, chemical bonds and the periodic table, matter and its physical properties, types of energy, energy cycle, etc.; monthly themed reports in social studies, enacting plays on Longmont history and field trips that enhance the classroom experience.

5th-6th graders use stream tables to study erosion and wind turbines to make electricity testing different blade patterns. They also have many other hands-on experiments both in class and out. US History comes alive in social studies from the early explorers to the constitution utilizing multiple resources including reading plays, art projects and crafts. Learning about the Americas and ancient civilizations also highlight the curriculum offerings.

The annual “Science Fair”, is the highlight of the school year in science, held at the end of February. All 1st-6th graders participate and local scientists judge the students’ experiments. We continue to receive wonderful comments from the judges each year on how advanced our students are, comparing high above the local public schools; standing as a testament to our individualized curriculum and small classes. The best compliment received to date comes from a former MPPS parent, now living in Massachusetts, whose school systems rank high in the country. After seeing last year’s winning entry from a 1st grader on Facebook, he commented, “That experiment would have won in my son’s 5th grade class!”.