Millikan Middle School
The Science Academy: A STEM School
The Science Academy is a three-year articulated program which adopts innovative methodologies to teaching and learning. We utilize a thematic approach to integrating the curriculum, undertaking a collaborative interdisciplinary study. The purpose of this venture is to allow students the opportunity to explore non-conventional learning styles in a college preparatory atmosphere, while becoming intellectually more efficient by incorporating learning modules that focus on rigor and the intensity of a college-bound program, and not a traditional-paced setting.
The Science Academy prepares students for the roles that will shape our nations’ future by incorporating science, technology, engineering and mathematics across all academic disciplines. We recognize that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education is vital to preparing our students for global competitiveness and economic prosperity.
Science Academy Grade Level Overviews
6th Grade Science Academy/Robotics: Students will focus on a comprehensive, advanced Geoscience curriculum that aligns with the state standards and employs a unique approach to learning through hands-on experience and higher-level academic rigor. Students will explore their world through multi-media, technology, and computer programming (Robotics), with an accelerated mathematics course (continued through all 3 ensuing years). In addition, Algebra I will be offered to 6th grade students that qualify. The curriculum will also include an introduction to Anatomy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy. The textbooks that will be used are Earth Science, 12th edition, by Tarbuck, Lutgens and Tasa, and Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Eighth Edition by Marieb.
There will also be a Technology and Robotics course incorporated in the 6th grade curriculum. Topics covered will include electricity, DC/AC electronics, computer science, and mechanics.
7th Grade Science Academy: Students will be studying AP Biology, using the 9th Edition Campbell/Reece Biology, AP Edition textbook as well as Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Eighth Edition by Marieb, with the opportunity to take the College Board AP Exam and the Subject Matter SAT in Biology. The eight major themes integrated into the curriculum that will be explored throughout the year are Science as a Process, Ecology, Evolution, Energy Transfer, Continuity and Change, Relationship of Structure to Function, Regulation, Interdependence in Nature, and Science, Technology and Society.
8th Grade Science Academy: Eighth grade Science Academy consists of two AP courses, Chemistry and Physics, divided into 18-week semesters, along with a four-week unit of Honors Astronomy in the last month. The primary textbook for AP Chemistry is Chemistry for Advanced High School Students, 7th edition by Zumdahl and Zumdahl. Students gain a depth of understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry, as well as a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The AP Physics course uses the textbook, Physics, 6th edition by Giancoli and addresses five major units; Newtonian Mechanics, Fluid Mechanical and Thermal Physics, Electricity and Magnetism, Waves and Optics, and Atomic and Nuclear Physics. Eighth grade courses also include lessons in Algebra II, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus.
All grade levels are interdisciplinary and taught by a team of teachers that differentiate all subject matter to align with the rigor and uniqueness of this program, while incorporating the use of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) consistently throughout the curriculum. The Science Academy is an avant-garde school. Due to the vast number of applicants and limited seating, the school only considers applications from students that meet the rigorous criteria of this unique program.
