Science

STEMScopes by Accelerate Learning

• Kindergarten focuses include physical, life, Earth, and space science.
• First-grade students explore space systems (patterns and cycles), sound and light waves (physical science), and animal body structures, functions, and information processing (life science).
• Second-grade students focus on working more deeply to learn the structures and properties of matter, ecosystem relationships, and the processes that shape the Earth.

Building Blocks of Science by Carolina Biological

• Third-grade students transition into Building Blocks of Science with units such as Forces and Interactions, Weather and Climate Patterns, and Life in Ecosystems.
• Fourth-grade students study units Plant and Animal Structures, Energy Works, and Changing Earth.
• Fifth-grade students focus on units like Structures and Properties of Matter, Earth and Space Systems, and Matter and Energy in Ecosystems.

6th Grade: Earth and Space Science

Students investigate Earth and space systems by engaging in science and engineering practices. Units focus on the solar system, interactions within Earth’s systems (weather, climate, natural resources, and human impacts), Earth’s history, and geologic processes.

7th & 8th Grade: Life and Physical Science

Our two-year rotating curriculum integrates life and physical sciences through a three-dimensional approach. By the end of 8th grade, all students have experienced the full range of middle school science standards.

• Year A: Students explore structure and function, forces and motion, growth and development, inheritance and variation of traits, and changes over time through modeling, investigation, and explanation of real-world phenomena.
• Year B: Students investigate ecosystems, matter and its interactions, energy transfer, and waves and information transfer, applying systems thinking and analyzing patterns to explain how and why these phenomena occur.

High School Science Pathways

North Thurston Public Schools offers a range of science pathways designed to support students’ interests, goals, and post-secondary plans. While specific course offerings may vary by school, all pathways provide opportunities for students to meet graduation requirements while building strong scientific knowledge and skills.

Students are required to earn three science credits, including two laboratory science credits. A fourth year of science is highly recommended, especially for students planning to attend a four-year college.

We encourage all students to take biology, STEM physics, and chemistry, as these courses provide a strong foundation in the Washington State Science Learning Standards and prepare students for a wide range of college and career options. Please refer to each high school's course catalog for a complete list of classes offered

Pathway Options

Core Pathway (Graduation Pathway)

Designed for all students to meet graduation requirements while building foundational science understanding.

• 9th–10th Grade: Biology and STEM physics (taken in either order)
• 11th Grade: Chemistry or a chemistry alternative
• 12th Grade: Optional science elective

2-Year College / Career Pathway

Supports students pursuing technical training, workforce entry, or two-year degree programs.

• Includes core courses (biology, STEM physics, chemistry, or equivalent)
• Opportunities to take career-aligned science electives
• Flexibility to tailor coursework based on career interests

University (General) Pathway

Prepares students for admission to four-year colleges across a variety of majors.

• Completion of biology, STEM physics, and chemistry
• Option to take  AP or College in the High School (CiHS) courses
• Additional science coursework is recommended in 11th and 12th grade

University STEM / Advanced Pathway

Designed for students interested in STEM fields such as engineering, medicine, or science majors.

• Accelerated progression into College in the High School (CiHS) and Advanced Placement (AP) courses
• Opportunities to take multiple advanced science courses in junior and senior years
• Emphasis on rigorous, college-level science experiences

Advanced Coursework and Electives

All high schools offer a variety of Advanced Placement (AP), College in the High School (CiHS), and elective science courses. These courses allow students to deepen their understanding, explore specific interests, and, in some cases, earn college credit.

Students are encouraged to work with their teachers and counselors to select courses that align with their goals and interests.

STEM Field Studies connect students with meaningful, real-world problems through engaging, site-based learning experiences. These opportunities allow students to explore scientific concepts through hands-on investigation in community and environmental settings.