Secondary Science at NNPS
Our Vision
Science is evolving. We inspire and empower the next generation by fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Through immersive learning experiences, inclusive environments, and powerful conversations, we ignite a passion for discovery, innovation, and responsible stewardship of the planet. We equip students with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex challenges and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge for the betterment of humanity.
Our science curriculum is organized around the following goals that guide instruction and assessment for our students as scientifically literate, critical thinking problem solvers, scholarly writers and communicators, and global citizens.
Our Goals
Our curriculum is aligned with the 2018 Virginia Standards of Learning and organized around the following goals that guide instruction and assessment to develop all students are scientifically literate, critical thinkers and problem solvers, scholarly writers, and effective communicators.
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Critically evaluate scientific information from a variety of sources and distinguish between what is reliable and pseudoscience by understanding the scientific method, recognizing bias, and assessing the validity and reliability of scientific claims. NNPS Profile: Critical Thinking
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Use reading, writing, thinking, and discourse to apply scientific reasoning. NNPS Profile: Critical and Creative Thinking, Communication, Collaboration
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Collaboratively work with peers to investigate scientific phenomena through hands-on experiments and real-world applications to think critically and solve problems. NNPS Profile: Critical Thinking, Collaboration
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Engage in collaborative discourse with peers, teachers, and experts in the field to share ideas, perspectives, and findings to gather essential evidence for problem-solving and critical thinking. NNPS Profile: Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication
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Develop skills in analyzing and interpreting data using appropriate tools and techniques. Look for trends, patterns, and relationships in data and draw evidence-based conclusions. NNPS Profile: Critical Thinking
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To be environmental stewards and be empowered to take action to protect and preserve the environment through sustainable practices and informed decision-making. NNPS Profile: Citizenship
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Explore global issues (i.e.climate change, loss of biodiversity, and access to clean water) to understand the interconnectedness of the world, the role science plays in addressing the challenges, and make informed decisions that have a positive impact. NNPS Profile: Citizenship
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Communicate effectively with peers, community members, and the scientific community through various oral, print, and digital media to provide discourse about findings, wonderings, and information explored. NNPS Profile: Creative Thinking, Communication
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Engage in scientific debates and discussions powered with knowledge from literature and exploration to articulate ideas and defend scientific phenomena (Ex: Global warming, climate change, and evolution). NNPS Profile: Communication, Collaboration
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Foster collaboration and communication between peers from different cultural backgrounds to enhance an understanding of global issues. NNPS Profile: Citizenship, Collaboration, and Communication
Our Instructional Approach
Students see themselves and the world around them reflected in their scientific investigation and exploration. Curious minds and scientific literacy prepare students to thrive in a rapidly evolving global society driven by science and technology. Our daily science blocks include a mix of student exploration, explicit instruction, collaboration, and partnering with students for more targeted growth and understanding. By implementing these strategies, a PK-12 instructional approach to science can promote student engagement, deepen understanding, and cultivate a lifelong interest in science.
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Emphasize hands-on activities, experiments, and investigations that allow students to actively explore scientific phenomena. Encourage students to ask questions, make predictions, gather data, analyze results, and draw evidence-based conclusions. This approach fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Encourage collaboration among students through group work, discussions, and presentations. Foster effective communication skills by providing opportunities for students to explain their scientific thinking and findings.
- Tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs and abilities of students. Provide inclusive opportunities for students to explore science at their own pace and level of understanding.
- Incorporate technology tools, simulations, virtual labs, and print and online resources to enhance science instruction and provide authentic interactive learning experiences.
- Use ongoing formative assessments, such as quizzes, observations, and discussions, to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.
Questions? Please call the NNPS Secondary Science Office at (757) 283-7850 x.10117.
Meet the Secondary Science Team
Rodney Culverhouse
Instructional Supervisor
(757) 283-7850 x.10117
Casey Ruder
Instructional Specialist
(757) 283-7850 x.10233
Amanda Riordan
Instructional Coach
(757) 283-7850 x.10237
Maryn Kuehnel
Secretary
(757) 283-7850 x.10260
