Science

Lisa Orenstein, Department Chair
email | 425-868-6191, ext. 662
download: science department highlights pdf

Students learn to understand and appreciate the world by learning the principles of science. They apply these principles and the processes of inquiry in experimental work to develop critical thinking ability. Students learn to question information through careful observation and data collection, and by forming and testing hypotheses. They practice responsible and objective communication of results.

A two-year sequence of lab courses that investigate topics in biology, physics and chemistry opens the Upper School program, followed by a third year of electives. Many choose to also take a fourth year of science. Electives include an advanced lab science course, zoology, botany, primatology, forensics, environmental science and Advanced Placement courses in biology, chemistry and physics.

The Science Department gives Middle School students as many opportunities as possible to investigate the world around them. The Middle School program introduces them to the three main branches of science studied at Overlake, then progresses to an in-depth study of physical science. Experimentation is central to each of these courses.

Learn more about Overlake's Science program in the department highlights and the curriculum map.




“My favorite thing about Overlake is that everyone does their best in class.”
      —8th grade


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