In mathematics , the emphasis on problem solving processes and sound basic skills continues as students master the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division as applied to whole numbers, fractions and decimals. Studies of geometry and probability become increasingly sophisticated. The lab-based science program emphasizes the ability to think and analyze. Most class activities involve experimentation and learning from direct observation. The students frequently design their own experiments to support or disprove their ideas, noting the procedures and conclusions in their lab notebooks.
Some areas of study arise out of the history core curriculum.
Fourth Graders study ecology, botany and simple machines. Fifth Graders study the human body. The Sixth Graders are introduced to physics, chemistry, and astronomy through studies of atoms, light, optics and motion. A study of French begins in Fourth Grade. Through games, shared meals, puppet shows, songs, dramatizations and a unit on Paris and its landmarks, Middle School students become comfortable learning to speak another language.