Academics
Science
ICS has a dedicated science teacher for grades K-4, and science/math subject teachers for grades 5-8. Because the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a very long list of goals set for public school students, we have adopted an approach that combines text-based learning with hands-on experimentation. ICS uses Scott Foresman and Pearson textbooks to form the foundation. FOSS units and Delta provide additional curriculum for project-based learning.
Our K-4 curriculum covers earth, life, and physical sciences.
Middle school science
The Pennsylvania State Standards and PSSA Assessment Anchors provide the foundation for the scope and sequence of the ICS Middle School science curriculum. ICS Middle School science teachers primarily use the Prentice Hall Science Explorer program to teach this content. This program offers labs and activity options that provide inquiry opportunities throughout the study of earth, life, and physical sciences. Through these opportunities, students think like scientists, constantly asking why and searching for answers. Other activities focus on content acquisition. ICS also uses the FOSS program as a supplemental resource for students and teachers.
ICS’s focus on student scientific inquiry is manifested in its Science Fair. During the Science Fair, students begin with a question, design an investigation, gather evidence, formulate an answer to the original question, and communicate the investigative process and results.
