All students in Junior High study life science, earth science, and the foundations of chemistry and physics. The 6th graders begin the year by learning the basics of the scientific method and scientific inquiry. They then focus on gaining a basic working knowledge of earth and life science, specifically plate tectonics, cell biology, and animal taxonomy. Students will also study the theory of evolution by natural selection, and how this theory exists in harmony with our Catholic faith.

In 7th grade, the main focus is developing proficiency in the foundations of chemistry. This includes a focus on the periodic table (especially the properties of the different families of elements and the interactions between elements), the structure of atoms and compounds, and a more detailed look at concepts from 6th grade, such as cell biology, and how these concepts overlap with their study of chemistry.

8th graders will shift to studying physical science. They will learn key concepts, such as velocity, momentum, mass, and weight. There will be a greater focus on basic applied mathematics, Newton’s Laws, and the laws of thermodynamics. They will also take a more in-depth look at concepts in chemistry by balancing chemical equations and studying the different subatomic particles that make up the natural world. They also apply their studies to the far-flung reaches of the universe by studying the Solar System, other galaxies, the life and death of stars, and how gravity affects the interactions of all objects that have mass.

Junior High students also apply the concepts they have learned in class to real world scientific questions by participating in the Science Fair in the spring. Each project includes a paper, poster that explains the student’s research, and presentation given in front of the class. Winners of the fair are chosen for each class, as well as three overall winners.

NLR Catholic Academy