MATH & SCIENCES

The Singapore Math program incorporates a problem solving approach using concrete, pictorial, and abstract methods that develop a deep understanding of number sense. There is a focus on mental math and mastery with fewer topics explored in greater depth. Recent studies show that using Singapore’s visual approach provides students with the equivalent of an extra month of academic instruction. Additionally, we implement Jo Boaler’s research behind developing growth mindsets and encouraging students to be risk takers; one’s brain grows more when mistakes are made, as the brain must process where it went wrong and how to find success. Our math program uses several modalities to illustrate how math relates to problem solving in our day-to-day lives. Our math program is extended for students who demonstrate in-depth number sense in an individualized and differentiated approach.

Science is everywhere, and students are curious to learn how the world works; hence, the Elementary School Science program is a hands-on program that is structured in a “spiraling” format integrating science, engineering, math, design, and technology. Students study sciences pertaining to life, earth, physics, and systems design. This approach promotes social and communication skills by creating a classroom environment that emphasizes the exchange of ideas and sparks passion for further exploration. Students learn how to articulate their ideas clearly and how to collaborate on tasks effectively through group projects while mastering core knowledge and skills for the study of science at the middle and high school levels. At New Roads, our dedication to the environment is paramount, as is evident in our youngest learners who apply their critical science thinking to the issues we face today.

Enrollment in Middle School math is based on student readiness as determined by diagnostic tools, interviews, and teacher assessments so that each student has a desirable level of challenge and pacing. For instance, one eighth grade student may be taking Pre-Algebra while another is taking Algebra II/Trig. Our program emphasizes development of math vocabulary, number sense, critical thinking, reasoning and the ability to use learned skills to solve unfamiliar problems. The program progresses so that all students enter high school with tools needed to eventually master, at minimum, Algebra II, which is required for all colleges in the University of California system.

Our curriculum is developmentally responsive and experiential. The integrated science model is a more accurate reflection of science in the modern world. Science is not isolated; concepts and topics are cross-cutting, meaning all concepts build upon and relate to each other. Our goal is for students to make connections with topics across different science disciplines such as Physical Science, Life Science, and Earth Science to explore complex questions about which they are curious. All science classes incorporate appropriate levels of lab work, group work, and discovery learning strategies.

In addition to teaching the essential pre-algebra and algebra skills needed to excel at higher levels of study, the goals of mathematics classes are to help students grow in creative and logical thinking; increase their ability to work with abstractions; appreciate the system of conceiving quantities and their meaning; apply quantitative reasoning to meaningful, real-world problems and decision-making; and form a sense of excitement that comes with discovering patterns and relationships. In addition to mathematical problems, students can expect to chart data, build models and solve puzzles and games. Students are placed in mathematics according to math-level readiness, not grade level.

The study of science at New Roads seeks to ground students in fundamental understanding of physical, life and earth-based sciences, and to reveal how evidence is discerned, assessed, and used to create compelling understandings of reality. We encourage students to learn science, not only by studying scientific understandings of the world, but by participating in intricate and fascinating labs both here on campus and out in the field. Ultimately, we hope students feel the awe of the mystery and insight that comes with true scientific investigation and lab work both in and out of the classroom.