Academics

Science & Tech

Philosophy of Science & Tech

At Seattle Girls' School, science and technology education is a dynamic journey rooted in inquiry, creativity, and real-world impact. Our integrated approach fosters curiosity and confidence by empowering students to ask questions, design experiments, code and engineer solutions, and critically examine the world around them. From exploring ecology and circuitry in fifth grade to engaging with ethics in animal research, climate change, and microprocessor programming by eighth grade, students gain both technical skills and a deep understanding of how science and technology intersect with social responsibility. Through hands-on experimentation, design thinking, and data-driven inquiry, our learners develop not only scientific literacy but also the mindset to lead with innovation and purpose.

Applied Skills by Grade

List of 4 items.

  • 5th Grade

    • Conducting observations and forming hypotheses
    • Differentiating between investigations and experiments
    • Documenting and organizing scientific data
    • Building and testing circuits using conductors and insulators
    • Practicing iterative design and engineering thinking

  • 6th Grade

    • Engaging in hands-on coding with Dash robots and JavaScript basics
    • Using Code.org’s Game and App Labs for structured learning
    • Investigating brain structure and neuroplasticity
    • Conducting experiments on animal research ethics using Planaria
    • Applying research skills and ethical reasoning in science

  • 7th Grade

    • Designing and executing scientific investigations
    • Analyzing data using charts, tables, and graphs
    • Coding interactive apps with buttons, images, and sounds
    • Using loops, conditionals, and variables in coding projects
    • Investigating environmental chemistry topics like pH and greenhouse gases

  • 8th Grade

    • Designing experiments in space science and biochemistry
    • Practicing ethical decision-making in lab scenarios
    • Conducting chromatography, dissection, and biometrics studies
    • Coding with microprocessors for interactive hardware
    • Applying design thinking in engineering challenges

Learning Outcomes by Grade

List of 4 items.

  • 5th Grade

    • Understand the fundamentals of the scientific process
    • Identify and apply the difference between qualitative and quantitative data
    • Demonstrate understanding of ecological systems and classification
    • Design and evaluate simple circuits with attention to material properties
    • Use basic coding tools to create interactive projects
    • Apply scientific reasoning to solve open-ended design challenges

  • 6th Grade

    • Explain how neural pathways develop and relate to a growth mindset
    • Understand the influence of genetics and environment on traits
    • Describe and model the function of major body systems
    • Evaluate the ethical use of animals in scientific studies
    • Write and debug simple code using variables, conditionals, and loops
    • Demonstrate understanding of how technology can be used for creative problem-solving

  • 7th Grade

    • Understand and apply the scientific method, including hypothesis development and data analysis
    • Describe atomic structure and chemical bonding
    • Explain chemical reactions and their real-world implications
    • Analyze environmental data to understand climate impact
    • Develop and present digital tools that respond to user inputs
    • Propose evidence-based solutions to environmental challenges

  • 8th Grade

    • Apply advanced lab techniques to explore scientific phenomena
    • Understand the physical laws governing motion, energy, and forces
    • Explain the role of ethics in scientific exploration and innovation
    • Utilize coding and microprocessors to build functional prototypes
    • Present STEM projects to expert audiences with clarity and evidence
    • Demonstrate mastery in applying scientific knowledge to real-world design problems

Seattle Girls' School

Located in the Central District, Seattle Girls' School is an independent school for girls and gender nonconforming students in grades 5-8. Our mission is to inspire and develop courageous leaders who think independently, work collaboratively, learn joyfully, and champion change.

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