Louis Pas
teur was a French biologist, microbiologist and chemist renowned for his discoveries of the principles of vaccination, microbial fermentation and pasteurization. He is remembered for his remarkable breakthroughs in the causes and prevention of diseases, and his discoveries have saved many lives ever since. His famous quote, “Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world” may be even more relevant today! The science program in South Orangetown continues to thrive! Through distance learning, teachers are finding creative ways to continue to inspire students to learn, explore, and appreciate the world!
At WOS, Kindergarten students are completing their research project in animal habitats by creating a diorama or other model of their animal’s habitat. First grade students will be learning about constellations that they can see in the sky and choose a constellation project to complete with their families. Second grade students are gearing up to learn about liquids and physical and chemical changes.
At CLE, third grade students will be kicking off their study of life cycles with several activities, including watching Mrs. Eckert’s caterpillars turn into butterflies! Fourth grade students just concluded their study of ecosystems by completing a Educational Escape room. Next, they are gearing up for their study of adaptations with hands- on activities to better understand how adaptations help animals to survive. Fifth grade students are studying the solar system by tracking shadows throughout the day and constellations throughout the night.
At SOMS, sixth graders are studying how mass and volume effect density through virtual labs and simulations. Seventh graders are studying fungus and bacteria through virtual models and online research, as well creating some moldy hands on projects at home. Our eighth graders are learning all about different types of rocks and creating the rock cycle, while students who are taking earth science are studying how to read and interpret weather maps through online activities.
At TZHS, many of our AP students took their exams over the last two weeks online so they can still have the opportunity of obtaining college credit for their courses. Many students participated in Learning Academies, including on weekends, to prepare for these first time ever online AP exams. Kudos to our students and teachers who worked tirelessly to prepare for these high-stakes assessments through this challenging time. Other science classes are providing students with engaging activities that also include opportunities for students to head outdoors to experience biology, play chemistry games, or conducting physics simulations. Teachers are continuing to provide students with synchronous and asynchronous video lessons to cover the science curriculum for the remainder of the year.
Finally, we are gearing up for our 6th Annual and First Virtual Summer STEAM Camp! Teachers have already begun planning exciting lessons and activities that our students will be able to do at home. Check out the district Summer STEAM Camp website for more information.
