Students Embrace the Scientific Process

June 13, 2023

Curiosity and discovery are the key ingredients of the STEAM Fair, a highly anticipated annual event for Green Chimneys School students. It’s an opportunity for our middle-schoolers to take a deeper dive into a topic of their choice, and culminates in a dedicated day to present their findings to classmates, staff, and families.

At our Clearpool campus, students shared their knowledge through well planned presentations spread throughout the campus dining hall, each focused on methodology and results. Brewster campus students filled the gym to view creative displays showcasing a wide range of research-based projects and hands-on activities.

From a study of electricity in Morse code to showing how a jet engine works, students carefully researched the history and technological processes of important inventions. More experimental projects explored how music affects a dog’s behavior and the science behind ice cream. Some projects took a nature-based focus, including how-to’s for creating a butterfly garden, growing crystals, and cultivating carnivorous plants.

Encouraging Exploration

The annual STEAM Fair reinforces Green Chimneys’ inquiry-based science curriculum, where age-appropriate lab experiments are incorporated into all science classes. Middle school grades 4-8 use the environmentally-rich campuses to investigate living things, as they become familiar with the scientific method. Students are also guided in study of the physical sciences to discover the characteristics, properties and chemical composition of all forms of matter.

In a school designed to help students find their strengths, experiential learning is a core component of our science programming. The planning and pursuit of a hypothesis, or exploration of the why and how of science and nature, is an important process for our students as they discover their ability to uncover answers, solve problems, and gain a sense of accomplishment.

Learn more about the enriched academic setting and therapeutic approach that provide a fully integrated program for students with special needs.