GDQ Science Curriculum Overview
Students develop an understanding of God’s created world through the study of a range of topics primarily in the fields of biology, chemistry and physics. The science program strives to help students develop a biblical worldview as they build upon a body of knowledge and understanding of the natural world through scientific inquiry, critical thinking and problem solving. At all levels, the science program encourages students to develop a God-given curiosity about physical phenomena as they make connections between scientific concepts and the real world around them.
A graduate of GDQ International Christian School will
- develop a broad base of scientific knowledge that can be applied to real-life situations and current issues in science through the study of biology, chemistry, physics and other science disciplines.
- use the process of scientific inquiry to investigate a problem, including analyzing, interpreting and drawing conclusions from experimental and other forms of data.
- present scientific data accurately by means of a variety of methods, including charts, graphs, diagrams and computer technology.
- work safely and effectively with a wide range of laboratory equipment.
- be able to successfully take any first-year university science course.
- be able to describe the orderliness of the universe and the evidence of an intelligent Creator as seen through the study of science.
- apply an understanding of his or her God-given stewardship role to personal choices and actions.
- be able to compare and contrast the presuppositions underlying theistic and naturalistic worldviews in relation to science.
Lower School Science Program
GDQ’s lower school science program covers the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Standards align with the national curriculum in England. Teachers draw from a variety of texts and resources with Science Directions by Collins Publishing and CGP topical books serving as general texts. Students develop and secure their understanding of the nature, processes and methods of scientific inquiry through observation, prediction, questioning and exploration.
Middle School Science Program
The middle school science program presents students with a three-year integrated approach to science through the study of biology, chemistry and physics. The program is laid out as a spiral curriculum in which more advanced concepts are layered upon a solid foundation of core concepts. The program places emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving and inquiry-based learning. Individual and cooperative learning strategies are integral to instruction and student mastery of concepts. Students learn to present collected data in the forms of charts, tables and graphs. They gain mastery in using scientific equipment and a range of measurement skills. They are encouraged to use good writing skills and to incorporate scientific terminology into their writing and speaking. They are also asked to apply new knowledge and understanding to real-life situations.
High School Science Program
GDQ’s high school science program continues to build on students’ learning of biology, chemistry and physics. The science program seeks to provide an array of course options based on university requirements and student interest. Biology is offered in grade 9, and Chemistry in grade 10. In grades 11 and 12, students may take Physics or Environmental Science. When there is sufficient student interest and available teaching staff, the following AP courses may be offered: AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics. Graduation requirements include three credits in science and one credit in health. The science program aims to develop “critical thinking and reasoning skills;” provide laboratory “inquiry-based investigations;” and build a stronger foundation in the sciences for understanding, real-world application and future study.