Pennichuck Middle School

Fulfilling Competencies for Physical Science Class

Students in Grade 9 are required to take Physical Science at the high school; however, a student may opt to take Biology if they pass the Physical Science assessment process prior to enrolling at Nashua High School North or Nashua High School South. 
 
We want to offer students the opportunity to show that they have demonstrated proficiency in the content addressed in the Physical Science class before advancing to the next science class. If students are successful on the Physical Science assessment, they will be offered the option of enrolling in Biology for Grade 9. We want to ensure that students are in the appropriate science course in their freshmen year and this assessment allows us to do that based on measured, demonstrated knowledge.
 
To demonstrate proficiency, students will present evidence that exhibits mastery of Physical Science concepts covered in the class curriculum. This portfolio process is designed to be a rigorous and authentic demonstration of understanding, and mimics the learning experience of students currently enrolled in the Physical Science class at North and South. 

Please click here for assessment portfolio guidelines.
 
The following students will be eligible to complete the Physical Science portfolio to meet the prerequisite requirement for Biology:
 
Current 8th grade students enrolled in the Nashua School District.
Current 8th grade private and charter school students, who are residents of Nashua on or before April 1, 2021.
Current 8th grade home-schooled students, who are residents of Nashua on or before April 1, 2021.

Families moving to Nashua after April 1, 2021 will need to contact Cheryl Meesig, Head Teacher for Science at North, and Naomi Hall, Head Teacher for Science at South, to discuss process. 
 
Students must submit portfolios to Ms. Meesig and Dr. Hall between 8 am to 3 pm on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at the front office at South, 36 Riverside Street, Nashua.