Science

The Science curriculum at Crosswinds is aligned with the current Minnesota State Standards and International Baccalaureate (IB) criteria. The science teachers use a multitude of instructional methods to meet the needs of each learner, including but not limited to: inquiry methods, laboratory investigation, interdisciplinary projects, and science outreach projects. Students also have the opportunity at Crosswinds to experience science with a hands-on approach. All science classes utilize our school acreage for learning on which there is a prairie, wetland, pond, school forest, and nearby lake.

Curriculum Focus

Grade 6 (IB – year 1)
Physical Science: Geology, cells and microscopic life, machines and forces of motion, and plants and water quality

Grades 7 and 8 (IB – year 2 & 3)
Life Science: Human body, cells, DNA, animals, and ecology

Earth Science: Astronomy, geology, weather & climate, earth’s resources

Grade 9 (IB – year 4)
Chemistry: Matter, periodic table, and chemical reactions

Physics: Motion & speed, forces, energy, and work

Grade 10 (IB – year 5)
Biology: Cells, genetics, evolution and biological diversity, microbiology, human biology, and ecology

Minnesota Academic Standards Science K-12