The science program promotes an awareness of the environment, the development of critical thinking skills, and vocabulary development while building upon the scientific method approach. Emphasis is placed on learning through observation, discovery and experimentation. In addition to science instruction provided by instructional teachers, students take part in cooperative learning and special projects through the campus’s science labs. Two science specialists create integrating lessons using hands-on approaches of the school’s pond and greenhouse. An enhanced science program at Lantrip develops each student’s natural interest in the environment while he or she studies an integrated accelerated curriculum. Experiences in Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Nature of Science are provided through discovery-based learning based on the 5-E learning cycle model. Students Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend and Evaluate each topic of study. Students apply the knowledge they learn in classrooms through hands-on activities and experiments provided by Lantrip’s science specialists. The three science labs incorporate cooperative learning and special projects that lead students to think like scientists. Our students are encouraged to do research projects. Lantrip constantly seeks to create a meaningful learning experience for students.
Lantrip supports field experiences as a means of learning. Units and lessons are planned around nature activities that take place at the Houston Arboretum, The Houston Zoo, The Museum of Natural Science, Space Center Houston, and Moody Gardens. The experiences broaden and expose many of Lantrip’s students to opportunities that otherwise may not have been present outside of the classroom.
Fine Arts is integrated into the science curriculum. Each year, our magnet students create presentations and performances to educate other students about scientific issues. Kindergarten and first grade students regularly perform a rainforest musical depicting our reliance on natural resources, while second graders educate our school about the solar system. Students learn important vocabulary terms and essential elements of our ecosystem.
Earth Week is an important element of the Science curriculum at Lantrip. During this time students are encouraged to be more proactive in taking care of our planet. Students learn about recycling, water conservation, energy saving, and tree planting.
