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Mission:
It is the mission of the Lafayette High School Science Department that all students achieve scientific literacy.
As inpiduals and as a society, we have a stake in scientific literacy. An understanding of science makes it possible for everyone to share in the richness and excitement of comprehending the natural world. Scientific literacy enables people to use scientific principles and processes in making personal decisions and to participate in discussions of scientific issues that affect society. A sound grounding in science strengthens many of the skills that people use every day, like solving problems creatively, thinking critically, working cooperatively in teams, using technology effectively, and valuing life-long learning.
Student learning will include:
- Inquiry Laboratory Investigations
- Claim Evidence Reasoning models
- Science Notebooking
- Cooperative learning groups
PLTW - Project Lead the Way
Biomedical Sciences
Three of our Irish Science teachers have been trained to teach the PLTW's Biomedical Sciences (BMS) programs in addition to our SJSD course offerings. Students are also enrolled in honors level math and science courses while taking the PLTW series.
PLTW's programs emphasize critical thinking, creativity, innovation and real-world problem solving. The hands-on learning engages students on multiple levels, exposes them to areas of study that they may not otherwise pursue, and provides them with a foundation and proven path to post-secondary training and career success in STEM-related fields.
The PLTW curriculum is founded in the fundamental problem-solving and critical-thinking skills taught in traditional career and technical education (CTE), but at the same time integrates national academic and technical learning standards and STEM principles, creating what U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan calls one of the "great models of the new CTE succeeding all across the country." PLTW was recently cited by the Harvard Graduate School of Education as a "model for 21st century career and technical education.
Current course offerings include Principles of Biomedical Science, Human Body Systems, Medical Interventions and Biomedical Innovations.