ASTEC MIDDLE SCHOOL

6th Grade Science serves as a hands-on introduction to the scientific method and fosters active involvement through beginning laboratory experiments and demonstrations. Sixth Grade Science scholars participate in “Modules,” which are composed of hands-on, scholar-centered, project-based activities. These modules provide multiple opportunities for scholars to observe, analyze and carry out the process of the scientific method.  In the scientific investigation process, scholars develop an understanding of the value of and how to best use technology to gather data, analyze the results of investigations, and effectively use evidence in the application of knowledge from investigations in real-life situations. PITSCO labs serve as a means of innovative, self-paced inquiry and interactive discovery, focusing primarily on earth science.  Topics for lab experiences included:  weather and climate, Earth’s geological history, cell organelles and their functions, Earth’s systems, energy and learning the process of experimental design. Each lab is structured so scholars have the opportunity to learn various concepts within a class period.