Our Physics First curriculum is an academically challenging program that prepares students for college while also addressing the scientific issues and challenges of the 21st century. Inquiry-based laboratory courses incorporate critical thinking skills,  cooperative learning, and problem-solving techniques. Problem-based learning focuses on collaboration with academic institutions and organizations such as the University of  Illinois at Chicago, Michigan State University,  Friends of the Chicago River, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Environmental Law and Policy Center. Learning by doing, Northside students gain a stronger understanding of the issues that shape their world.