Science at Portola HGM…

Science at Portola HGM is constructive, with every learner maximizing their science potential through real-world scientific investigations and deep understanding of advanced scientific concepts. HGM learners pursue knowledge as they develop and grow as young scientists. Our CAST score of 94% shows that science can be rigorous and joyful!

Sixth-grade HGM Science…

Observing, studying, and monitoring marine organisms in our classroom…

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of their sixth-grade year, HGM learners will see themselves as scientists as they develop the following skills: 

*Engineering Design Process

*Scientific Method as a cyclical process that generates questions more than answers

* Navigating scientific studies in journals and professional articles

*Research methodology

* Credible sources

*APA style in writing and referencing

Content: Big Ideas

  • The Ocean as a source of life and Earth's processes

  • Evolutionary basics

  • Introduction to biology

  • Biomimicry

  • Health basics: drug education

  • Innovation as  a scientific skill

Laboratory and Technical Skills:

  • Tank monitoring

  • Use of technology platforms for research and presentation

By the end of their 7th-grade year, HGM learners will see themselves as scientists as they develop the following skills: 

Scientific Practice & Engineering Design:

  • Experimental Design with multiple variables and error propagation

  • Use of C-E-R to make evidence-based arguments

  • Conduct laboratory experiments

  • Collaborate group research and presentations 

  • AP Biology Preparation 

  • Biotechnology


Science Skills: 

  • Independent research question development and hypothesis formation

  • Literature review using academic databases and peer-reviewed sources

  • APA format for citations, references, and research paper structure

  • Research methodology design: controls, variables, sample size, trials

  • Data collection over extended time periods (6-8 weeks minimum)

  • Statistical significance testing and data interpretation

  • Abstract writing following competition guidelines

  • Scientific poster design and layout principles

  • Formal presentation skills for judge interviews

  • Research notebook documentation and dating protocols

  • Ethics review for human subjects or vertebrate animals

  • Project timeline management and milestone tracking

7th Grade HGM Science…

Seventh-grade science in the HGM is Biology and Health with an emphasis on real-world research, scientific processes, and experimental design.

8th Grade HGM Science….

8th Grade Science Curriculum Outcomes:

By the end of their eighth-grade year, HGM learners will see themselves as emerging physicists and chemists ready for advanced high school coursework as they develop the following skills:

Scientific Practice & Engineering Design:

  • Advanced experimental design with multi-variable analysis and error propagation

  • Scientific argumentation using CER framework with quantitative evidence

  • Peer review process and constructive scientific critique

  • Collaborative research teams with defined roles and project management

  • Public presentation of findings using multimedia and data visualization

Content: Big Ideas

  • Objects in Motion: 1D/2D kinematics, Newton's Laws, momentum conservation

  • Energy transformations: kinetic, potential, mechanical systems

  • Universal gravitation and orbital mechanics

  • Atomic structure and quantum model basics

  • Periodic trends and chemical bonding

  • Chemical reactions, formula writing, and stoichiometry

  • Electromagnetic forces and fields

  • Circuits and Ohm's Law

Academic & Professional Skills:

  • Technical writing: formal lab reports and research papers

  • Depth & Complexity tools for advanced analysis

  • Scientific literature review and source evaluation

  • Statistical analysis and uncertainty calculations

  • Career exploration in STEM fields

  • College-level laboratory documentation

Laboratory & Technical Skills:

  • Motion sensors, photogates, and video analysis software

  • Force sensors and digital data collection

  • Multimeters and circuit construction

  • Chemical measurement: analytical balances, volumetric glassware

  • Spectroscopy and molecular modeling software

  • Safety protocols for physics and chemistry investigations

  • Engineering prototyping and testing procedures