Science Curriculum

The formal science curriculum at UPSM Middle School is the Investigating and Questioning our World through Science and Technology (IQWST), an inquiry and project-based science curriculum developed by the National Science Foundation in partnership with the major universities and national think tanks.  

IQWST materials align with national standards, are rooted in principles of project-based scientific inquiry, focus on science’s “big ideas,” and employ research-based practices shown to promote students’ science and science literacy learning.

UPSM Middle School is proud to offer the Project Lead the Way engineering curriculum, which is a nationally acclaimed, engaging, hands-on engineering program that starts students in Computer Assisted Design projects as early as sixth grade.

Project Lead the Way

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) middle and high school STEM education programs are providing the inspiration for a new generation of innovators, the practical skills and hands-on experience to make students’ knowledge count in the real world, and the basis for the next generation of leadership in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics. PLTW develops motivated, well-rounded students by instilling confidence, stressing the importance of self-discovery, encouraging innovative problem solving and critical thinking, teaching team building and rewarding creativity.

Your student will develop skills essential for achievement in the classroom and success in college and at work.

• PLTW students achieve significantly higher scores in reading, mathematics, and science.
• PLTW graduates earn higher GPAs as college freshmen.
• PLTW graduates are 5 to 10 times more likely to study engineering and technology.

Read more about PTLW: http://beta.pltw.org

Mathematics Program

UPSM provides each student with authentic and rigorous mathematical foundation and the reasoning skills necessary for further study and continued academic success. Every student will fulfill the state’s Algebra II Graduation Requirement. The mathematics program will support and enhance the work completed in the science program.

The curriculum is designed to meet the guidelines established in the Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE) and the High School Content Expectations (HSCE) to provide students with the skills and confidence necessary to prepare them for college and STEM careers. UPSM also draws on Singapore Math and other Asian math strategies to ensure the highest levels of math achievement possible.