The Atmosphere Academy Science Program is designed to align with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), fostering scientific literacy and preparing our students to address real-world challenges. At its core, the program is built on a foundation of phenomena-based science inquiry, encouraging students to explore the natural world through hands-on investigations and real-world problem-solving.
Course Offerings:
Atmosphere’s High School Science Program ensures that students meet their graduation requirements by completing three years of core science courses.
- Life Science: Biology: Students explore key biological concepts such as cellular biology, genetics, ecology, and organisms’ interactions with their environment. Through inquiry-based investigations and hands-on labs, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By emphasizing the complexity and interconnectedness of living systems, this course provides a strong foundation for advanced study in life science and encourages an appreciation for the diversity of life on our planet.
- Earth & Space Science: This course, aligned with the NYS Earth and Space Science curriculum and Next Generation Science Standards, covers Earth’s systems and the universe. Students explore geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy, gaining an understanding of Earth’s processes and their effects on life. Students learn about plate tectonics, weather, climate, and the universe’s origin through hands-on activities. The course promotes critical thinking about Earth’s palace in space and its role in protecting the planet, preparing students for further studies and global citizenship.
- Chemistry: Delves into the study of matter and its interaction, from atomic structure to chemical reactions. Students build strong analytical and problem-solving skills through lab experiments and real-world applications, preparing them for further scientific inquiry and careers in STEM fields.
In addition to these foundational courses, students have the opportunity to explore elective options, such as Forensics Science, Astronomy, and Marine Biology. For those seeking advanced studies, we offer AP courses such as AP Environmental Science and AP Biology, providing a pathway for deeper exploration and college-level preparation in science. As our science program continues to evolve, we are committed to growing and adapting to meet the needs and interests of our school community.
Curriculum Approach
Our lessons begin with engaging phenomena that captivate student’s curiosity. These real-world events or scenarios are an entry point for deeper scientific explorations. Students learn by asking questions, investigating the phenomena, drawing conclusions based on evidence, and utilizing 21st-century skills. We prioritize making science relevant by connecting classroom learning to everyday life and global challenges. Students are actively involved in projects that require collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
Atmosphere Academy’s Science Program goes beyond preparing students for academic success; it equips them to be thoughtful, innovative leaders in a STEM-driven world. By emphasizing inquiry, critical thinking, and real-world connections, our program empowers students to understand the world and contribute meaningfully to solving its most pressing concerns. Atmosphere’s science program is dedicated to preparing students to thrive in college, careers, and their communities. We inspire students to not only master the core concepts of science but also to view science as a tool for making a positive impact in their world.
Atmosphere’s middle school science program provides a comprehensive and integrated approach to scientific learning. Our curriculum spans grades 6 through 8 and incorporates Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science elements at each grade level. This integrated approach ensures students gain a well-rounded understanding of scientific concepts throughout middle school.
Course Offerings:
- Integrated Science 6: Introduces fundamental concepts across Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences.
- Integrated Science 7: Builds upon previous knowledge with a deeper exploration of scientific principles.
- Integrated Science 8: Prepares students for advanced topics in preparation for the 8th-grade science exam and sets a strong foundation for high school science courses.
- Earth Science and Space Regents Grade 8: Focuses on specific New York State standards, preparing students for future academic challenges and success on the NYS Regents exam.
Curriculum Approach:
We have adopted the Amplify curriculum for our middle school science courses, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, multimodal engagement, and practical science applications. This approach fosters creative thinking, critical analysis, and collaborative skills, aligning closely with New York State standards.
Science Achievement in Grade 8:
This specialized program prepares students for the New York State exam by integrating Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science content. It includes:
- Intensive workshops covering labs, performance tasks, and data analysis.
- Development of content-based vocabulary and critical reading skills.
- Strategies for responding to multiple-choice and constructed response questions.
- Assessments to track student progress and tailor instruction accordingly.
Enrichment and Support:
To complement classroom learning, Atmosphere participates in the Urban Advantage program. This initiative provides opportunities for students to explore science outside the classroom through visits to city planetariums, aquariums, zoos, museums, and botanical gardens. Students also benefit from vouchers to visit these venues with their families, fostering a deeper connection to scientific discovery. Additionally, Urban Advantage offers ongoing professional development opportunities for our science teachers and leaders.