Teachers educated in the physical and life sciences appropriate for the age and developmental level they are teaching. A partnership established with the family in which the activities, materials, and experiences of the science curriculum are shared. A diverse set of science materials, activities, and experiences which are designed to foster an inquiring scientific mind. A schedule that allows large blocks of uninterrupted time for observation of nature, hypothesis testing, two and three-dimensional model building, research, and knowledge mastery in the sciences. A spirit of openness as each discipline is viewed in the light of current scientific explanation.
Science is seen as an ongoing process.
In addition to the basic characteristics, science information is framed within the context of seriation, classification, and conservation. Seriation is developed by providing experiences in life cycles and natural processes. Conservation is the basis of science in that science has predictive value, and conservation allows for consistencies across superficial changes. Classification abilities are developed through consistent and exhaustive sorting, multi-membership classification, and inclusive classifying. Concrete operation allows the child to manipulate and experiment in building a knowledge base.