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Next Gen

Science

Whether they are in the lab, the classroom, the library innovation space, the garden or observing the bee hive, our students are taught to be collaborative thinkers who confidently bring their independent thoughts to small groups and class discussions. Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), a skills-based science curriculum, our students apply their scientific toolbox across disciplines. Our skilled, thoughtful, and dedicated science teachers bring engagement and excitement to our science classes from Kindergarten all the way through 8th grade.

Charleston Day School Garden

Our CDS garden, complete with raised beds and a large turf green space is a popular spot on campus for science class and reading groups alike. A weather station complete with a rain gauge and a thermometer engages the younger students in reading weather tools. Whether growing lettuce and vegetables to be used in our kitchen or sketching in their journals, CDS students treasure lessons and time spent in this urban garden.

Charleston Day School Garden

Honeybee Hive

Charleston Day School has a honeybee hive in an observation wall of our science lab. The bees are a mesmerizing way to learn about bee culture, pollination and more.

The health of the hive ebbs and flows, much like honeybee populations around the country. Over Spring Break, our hive was so healthy, the beekeepers took thousands of bees out for rehoming to allow the hive to continue to grow. They also took the queen, so our hive will soon queen another.

Our beehive began several years ago through The Bee Cause Project. It is now managed by Tom of @queenandcomb. We are so appreciative of their care and our students always look forward to studying the honeybees!

Charleston Day School Honeybee Hive

Robotics

Beginning in first grade technology class, students practice early coding skills using their iPad and a laptop computer. Our creative technology teacher uses programs such as Tynker to teach students the basic building blocks of coding. Our dynamic librarian welcomes students to explore building materials as well as small robots such as Sphero balls and Ozobots. In the library’s innovation space, students can be found coding and exploring with Ozobots based on line design and color.

Charleston Day School Robotics

Engineering Design

Teachers incorporate the Engineering Design Processes in various projects across grades. Students work to develop their own models showing STEM in action. For example, in second grade, the MacGyver project encourages students to think outside the box as they disassemble household simple devices and reassemble them into a new tool. In fourth grade, students work to develop and practice a multitude of productive skills as they brainstorm, research, plan, engineer, test, improve and present a prototype of their very own.

Charleston Day School 6th Graders Viewing Eclipse

Inside the Classroom