Statement of Purpose

The Berkeley Preparatory School Science Department provides to all students instruction in the sciences with opportunities for advanced study.

 

Guiding Principles

Science knowledge is fundamental to a basic education. Science knowledge, the ability to analyze and apply that knowledge, and the recognition of the role science plays in our lives is vital to the development of our students, no matter what their ultimate goals may be.

A strong foundation in the basic sciences is essential to prepare our graduates for acceptance and success in highly selective colleges.

The Berkeley student body includes individuals with exceptional natural science talents who will enter science-related career fields. Some students have the potential to make unique and important contributions to science.

Science content, processes, applications, and promotion of sound student character values are the four cornerstones that support Berkeley science activities. The science department strives to provide each of its students with a fundamental understanding of biology, chemistry and physics. Completion of full year core courses and electives provides Berkeley graduates with a strong preparation for success in collegiate sciences. The processes of science investigation and learning are emphasized; skills in observing, questioning, experimenting, studying, using computers and using the scientific method are common threads in the Berkeley science courses. Students are encouraged to appreciate the beauty found within our universe. Practical application of concepts to everyday life is stressed. Moral and ethical issues are addressed and debated as the world’s scientific community continues to discover and investigate such things as the impact of pollution, manipulation of genetic material and new sources of energy. Good sound character values are beneficial to students - in their efficient current study of science, their overall success at Berkeley, and their ultimate success and happiness as adults. Berkeley science students are able to refine their values of discipline, diligence, integrity, cooperation, confidence, respect, compassion, responsibility, community and persistence.

Overview

Science instruction at Berkeley Preparatory School is a progressive science learning experience. Grades one through five science instruction is integrated into each grade's curriculum and described under Lower Division. Students in grades six through eleven take a progression of required science courses. Class sizes are twenty students or less. Classes meet on a varying schedule with an average of four one hour periods a week. In the upper division, grades nine through twelve, students participate in an extra one hour laboratory session about once a week. Various electives are completed by students in grades ten through twelve. All students at Berkeley complete six years of required science, and most students complete four or more science courses in grades nine through twelve.

The Berkeley Preparatory School science program benefits greatly from the synergistic effects of the Berkeley learning environment of highly talented students; a carefully constructed and well-validated curriculum; a dedicated, teaching-oriented, superbly-qualified faculty; a focus on developing the whole person; a supportive learning environment, high-quality facilities and equipment with ample supplies; a caring and supportive Berkeley family of students, parents and faculty; and a moral-ethical foundation.