The science department offers courses designed to acquaint students with the means of inquiry used by scientists, to acquire knowledge that comprises the essential structure of each of the sciences, and to develop a respect for and an enduring curiosity about the natural world and the mysteries of the universe. A student may choose to be introduced to the content and methods of several of the sciences or may wish to concentrate on one or more of the sciences by doing advanced work.
Laboratory work is integrated into the curriculum of the courses. Additionally, for those students desiring a greater depth to their laboratory experience, some courses include a 5-credit option which meets an additional period every 4 days. The 5, 6, and 8 credit courses require the student to commit extra within their seven-period schedule.
All students must pass one of the four approved MCAS science tests (Technology/Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) to qualify for a diploma. In addition, students must complete one of the tests by the end of their sophomore year by either taking Engineering the Future as a freshman or Biology as a sophomore.
Nashoba does not explicitly recommend either course of action. See the Massachusetts Department of Education website for more specific information: http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/nextgen
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Standards set the expectations for what students should know and be able to do. The NGSS were developed by states to improve science education for all students. https://www.nextgenscience.org
See our Program of Studies to learn more.
MA DESE http://www.doe.mass.edu/instruction/
Science and technology/engineering Grades 9-12: Energy-Physics
Useful links
Massachusetts STEM Initiative
The University of Massachusetts seeks to be the Commonwealth's resource for improving K-16 STEM education by providing leadership, curriculum development (both K-12 and public higher education), higher education and K-12 teacher preparation, research, and STEM policy development and advocacy.
To see the University of Massachusetts STEM initiative go to: https://scholarworks.umass.edu/stem/.