Science Department
Maria Catenacci, Assistant Principal
Department Overview
The Science Department of John Bowne High School offers standard based instruction in the study of the Living Environment and the Physical Setting. The science teachers share a constructivist philosophy, placing value on the inquiry skills of students in science lessons and laboratory experiences. Learning experiences incorporate a diversity of student centered classroom activities including, cooperative learning, open-ended questioning, concept mapping, critical thinking and classroom writing resulting from student observations and collective evidence. Through special assignments and projects focused on science in the news media and from students’ own daily experiences, students are made aware of their responsibility to become scientifically literate and responsible citizens capable of understanding and analyzing the current events of the world community.
Computer technology is infused into the science courses through a variety of portable classroom computers that access the Internet in each classroom and the lab room. Students have an opportunity to explore websites and search for meaningful electronic information in class guided by their science teacher. Multimedia websites, presentations, and simulations, complement the diverse learning styles of our students. Students are using electronic probes and computer software to collect and analyze scientific data in lab and in field experiences. Science instruction for English Language Learners (ELL) is a priority. Bilingual instruction is offered in Spanish and Chinese, and special ESL sections of regents courses are offered to support the needs of ELL students.
The core courses offered include, Living Environment, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics. The Elective courses offered include, Oceanography, Forensic Science, Environmental Science, Science Research, and Science Foundations. Honors students have the opportunity to enroll in Advance Placement Biology. Through the College Now Program at Queens College, students may enroll in General College Chemistry. Extra curricular activities include the science club and the HOPE environmental club. John Bowne is a participating GLOBE school as well as a participant in the Energy Smart Schools Program. Students may complete science fair and research projects in class, and some are awarded summer internships with the New York Academy of Science, the Hudson River Project and other research institutions throughout the NYC area.
