At iLEAD AV Studio, a TK-8 free public school in Lancaster, CA, science is a way of thinking, exploring, and understanding the world. Our approach to science goes far beyond memorization. Our goal is to unlock kids’ curiosity, inquiry, and a deep appreciation for the scientific method. We emphasize hands-on activities and experimentation to solidify conceptual understanding and develop scientific fluency.
A Scientific Journey through the Grades
At iLEAD AV Studio, science education is a continuous and carefully structured journey, progressively building knowledge and skills from transitional kindergarten (TK) through 8th grade. Our curriculum is designed to introduce fundamental scientific concepts at an age-appropriate level, expanding in complexity each year. Learners explore a wide array of disciplines, including physical sciences (like forces, energy, matter, and waves), life sciences (such as ecosystems, organisms, and genetics), Earth and space sciences (covering weather, Earth’s systems, and the solar system), and consistently integrate engineering design principles across all grade levels. This comprehensive and sequential approach ensures a deep and evolving understanding of the natural world and how to interact with it through scientific inquiry and innovation.
Project-Based Learning: Where Science Comes Alive
A cornerstone of our science education is Project-Based Learning (PBL). We believe that true understanding comes from applying knowledge from all subjects to real-world problems. As the California Science Standards Framework highlights, reading, writing, mathematics, and speaking are all essential for doing science effectively.
PBL at iLEAD AV Studio equips learners with critical thinking and collaboration skills to solve real-world problems. Our projects are designed to be authentic and engaging, mirroring challenges faced by professionals outside of school. For example, learners might tackle sustainability issues through scientific reports, design new wing shapes for aircraft, or design an experiment that will benefit astronauts colonizing Mars. These projects incorporate real-world steps and procedures, balanced with academic rigor, seamlessly integrating ELA, math, science, and even art.
Beyond the Classroom Walls: Connecting to the Real World
We foster ingenuity and authenticity in our projects by making genuine connections to the world around us. This could involve responding to local environmental concerns or addressing current global problems. Most importantly, we encourage learners to find personal meaning in their projects, drawing on their unique values, cultures, traditions, and interests.
From Earth to Orbit: DreamUp to Space
One remarkable example of our commitment to immersive, authentic science is our iLEAD Student Aerospace Projects DreamUp to Space Project. Learners in grades 5-8 are fully immersed in scientific experimentation and design, microgravity, and proposal writing. Collaborating in small groups, they develop experiments that could potentially be conducted on the ISS! This partnership with DreamUp empowers our learners to understand the impact of microgravity on matter and think like real scientists.
Soaring Aeronautics: Exploring Flight
Another exciting iLEAD Student Aerospace Projects opportunity, the Soaring Aeronautics Project, taps into kids’ innate curiosity about flight. Learners delve into the forces described by Newton and Bernoulli, using the engineering design process to fabricate and launch their own gliders. They even interact with full-scale gliders, learn from experienced pilots, and utilize flight simulators. History, bird anatomy, experimental gliders, and meteorology are all woven into this rich learning experience. In 8th grade, this project culminates with the opportunity for learners to fly a real glider!
Presentations of Learning (POLs): Showcasing Mastery
All iLEAD AV Studio learners participate in Presentations of Learning (POLs), where they showcase their projects to an authentic audience. This isn’t just about what they’ve learned but how they’ve applied their knowledge in real-world contexts. Young learners might present on local ecology, while middle schoolers could craft environmental awareness campaigns. Engaging with real audiences elevates the rigor and increases learner engagement.
Measuring Success: A Holistic Approach
We are dedicated to ensuring our learners achieve proficiency in science. We meet all statewide standards and participate in required assessments, including the California Science Test (CAST). However, our assessment goes beyond standardized tests. We use a range of authentic classroom assessments, including teacher (facilitator) observations, portfolios, and project-based evaluations, to provide a comprehensive picture of each learner’s progress and mastery of scientific concepts and skills.
At iLEAD AV Studio, science is an adventure, a journey of discovery, and a vital tool for navigating our world.
About iLEAD AV Studio:
iLEAD AV Studio is a free public TK-8 school in Lancaster, CA, that fosters personalized education through project-based learning, social-emotional development, independent critical thinking. Our approach integrates technology and the arts, encourages entrepreneurship and collaboration, and values family participation. Our unique hands-on projects, including aerospace and glider-flight opportunities, prepare learners for success in high-demand careers. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadav.org.
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