Upper School Science Program
Guided by Scientists, Driven by Curiosity
With guidance and support from practicing scientists and mentors, OES students explore interest-driven questions, learn to think like scientists, and deeply engage with the ever-changing world around them. In all OES science classes, the inquiry-driven approach to research develops students’ critical thinking skills.
Real-World Research, Real-World Results
For each science inquiry project, students observe the world, learn to ask testable questions, design and implement strategies to collect relevant information and analyze and interpret data to form conclusions. By the time students graduate, they have completed multiple projects that demand progressively sophisticated approaches, require developmentally appropriate skills, and foster iterative growth and development.
A Pathway to Deeper Discovery
Students learn and practice the foundation of inquiry-based science through the study of physics, followed by chemistry and biology. In grades 11 and 12, students have the opportunity to select from a range of semester electives, allowing them to continue exploring their specific interests or discover new ones.
Recently offered courses include:
- Advanced Electricity & Magnetism
- Advanced Mechanics
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Data Science
- Computational Physics
- Dynamic Equilibria
- Genetics
- Introduction to Engineering
- Machine Learning
- Organic Chemistry
Science Research at Oregon Episcopal School
The Oregon Episcopal School Upper School science program challenges students throughout the school year through independent research and provides opportunities for national and international competition.
Beyond the Classroom
OES facilitates collaborative inquiry beyond the classroom. Students and faculty explore unique science education initiatives to participate in citizen science.
Recent science co-curricular opportunities include:
- Field studies at the Oregon Zoo
- Greenhouse Activity
- Environmental Citizenship Activity
- Aerospace Team
- Science-based Winterim courses like spelunking, studying wolves in Yellowstone Park, geothermal energy in Iceland, and marine science in Belize.
The Aardvark Science Exposition
This annual science, engineering, computer science, and math research exhibition gives students in grades 9 through 12 the opportunity to present research on topics of their choice. OES engages experts from the Portland area to judge the expo so all students experience what it means to defend their work and communicate their process. Each year, there are an average of 75 judges for a student-judge ratio of 3:1, so that each student has ample time for connection with and feedback from professionals in their field of study. Judges hold either a master's or doctoral degree in science, math, or engineering, and often include OES parents and alumni.
The Aardvark Science Expo is a preliminary qualifying round for state, regional, and national competitions. Each year, OES sends students to the renowned Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).