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More about the Science program
More about the Science program
The science program at MSA was designed to broaden student understanding of a wide range of scientific concepts, nurture developing critical thinking skills, and cultivate engaged and scientifically literate citizens. Students learn subject matter disciplines in the context of inquiry, technology, science in personal and social perspectives, and the history and nature of science while integrating all aspects of scientific concepts. All elements of the program are consistent with the National Science Education Standards and Benchmarks for Scientific Literacy, and meet state-mandated goals as measured by the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA’s) Middle School and High School Science benchmarks.
Required Courses
Required Courses
Earth and Space Science
6th grade
Our planet is a beautiful, dynamic place, with complex interconnected systems. How do these systems and the cycles within them interact to support all living things? Not only have people been curious about Earth, but they have looked up at the sky in wonder. All will be revealed as you explore our place in space!
Earth Science
Earth Science
7th Grade
Students will investigate Earth science concepts including the nature and practice of science, Earth in space, geology, meteorology, and human interactions with Earth systems. Students will demonstrate the application of critical thinking skills to science problems and develop an awareness of basic underlying concepts that relate to or explain the natural world (systems, cycles, order, change, energy and matter, cause and effect). The course includes in-class and group activities, online learning, labs and inquiry, research projects, and other assignments.
Physical Science
8th grade
Physical Science is the branch of science concerned with the study of inanimate natural objects, including physics and chemistry. You can think of it as an introduction to both physics and chemistry (classes you will take in high school). This is a discovery based course. Students participate in labs, discussions, and activities to learn the material. Students should be prepared to work and apply their knowledge to the course material and topics.
Enrichment Courses
Enrichment Courses
Computer Science
6th grade
This unit will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects. Throughout the unit, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development.
Automation and Robotics
7th grade
Students learn about the history and impact of automation and robotics as they explore mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Using the VEX Robotics platform, students apply what they know to design and program traffic lights, robotic arms, and more.
Design and Modeling
7th grade
Students discover the design process and develop an understanding of the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They are then challenged and empowered to use and apply what they’ve learned throughout the unit to design a practical item.
Medical Detectives
8th grade
Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they collect and analyze medical data to diagnose disease. They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, measure and interpret vital signs, examine nervous system structure and function, and investigate disease outbreaks.
Energy and the Environment
8th grade
Students are challenged to think big and toward the future as they explore sustainable solutions to our energy needs and investigate the impact of energy on our lives and the world. They design and model alternative energy sources and evaluate options for reducing energy consumption.
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