The science program in the middle school presents a hands-on, age-appropriate application for developing science literacy.  The program helps students to think like scientists and follow scientific practices.  Students learn to identify and manipulate variables, make careful observations, record data, and share their findings.  The sequence builds on the work begun in elementary school and students continue to develop problem solving skills.  Teachers provide students with laboratory experiences in order to develop critical thinking approaches to better understand concepts in science. Sixth graders have a general science class with a focus on chemistry and physics.  Seventh graders study life science and eighth graders study Earth science.