Origins of Life, Matter, and Energy

This was a partner project the freshmen took on in biology. Students were given lesson questions regarding Earth’s history and -spheres, eukaryotic cells, the Carbon Cycle, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration and fermentation.

Depending on what students answered, they had to draw diagrams and equations, label parts, describe structures and functions, and list key components. This unit project combined the complex curriculum with the artsy hands of PFAA students.

Since this is a Unit 1 project, the fundamentals of biology were learned to propel the students into later course material. By using a variety of ways to demonstrate knowledge, this project was a well-rounded way for students to exercise their scientific application skills. The partner aspect also enhanced communication experience for the students and the sharing of knowledge.

 

 

Colossal Collisions

The 8th grade science classes were given the task to devise a solution to prevent an impending asteroid collision. To do this, they had to compile the unit’s information and concepts into a video news segment as well as a detailed news article. Besides just posing a solution, the students also had to back up their decision with scientific evidence.

They were given statistics of the asteroid, Etiam, such as its shape, mass, speed, and location. This background data gave the students a ground basis off which they would decide on the best way to prevent the collision.

Both deliverables required the explanation of the unit’s concepts such as gravity, mass, and Newton’s Laws of Motion. The relationship between mass, kinetic energy, and speed was also stated to aid in the explanation of Etiam‘s magnitude. Students also had to cite fossil record data, bring in historical evidence from a previous asteroid, and test potential solutions.

By completing the video news segment, the students got to practice their oral presentation skills and logical organization. They also had the layer of working in a group, which pushed the students to work diligently and efficiently to complete the video. The individual article forced students to write a convincing argument while explaining the trajectory of Etiam.

 

Welcome!

Welcome to the first blog to ever highlight the math and science departments at Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy (PFAA)! This blog will track all the projects done in the math and science classes in both the middle school and high school. Here, you get to see what the students work on when not concentrating on their arts.

PFAA is a highly recognized art school, but sometimes the flourishing work in the math and science classes are not displayed nor recognized as much. The community misses out on the chemical reaction labs and tricky math concepts PFAA students grapple with daily. From sixth to twelfth grade, students study everything from algebra to trigonometry to calculus and break down the basics of the biological, chemical, physical, anatomical, and health sciences. PFAA students are the ultimate learning machines both in their art as well as math and science classes.

Thus, this blog will have new entries every time a project is done in class. Projects are the culminating mediums in which to assess and present a student’s understanding. Luckily, PFAA students tackle a lot of projects both in groups and individually. Here, you can stay updated on what goes on behind the red curtain.