Departmental Philosophy

Welcome to the Butler Junior High Science Department.  We strive to teach our students that science works under the principle that natural phenomena can be explained through systematic observation and analysis.  The basis for achieving this goal is the scientific method. First, an observation or question about an event is proposed.  Second, a hypothesis is put forth.  To verify or disprove this prediction, experimental design techniques are utilized.  Qualitative and quantitative data are collected and analyzed.  From this, a conclusion about the original event can be drawn, therefore resulting in the development of theories about the natural world.  This well defined and proven series of steps is what defines Science in Butler District 53. 

About the Teachers

Mr. Baar has taught 6th -8th grade science at Butler since 1982, and he has been Assistant Principal since 1998. During his years at Butler he has coached the Girls Soccer Team, the Varsity Boys Basketball Team, the Swimming Team, and the Track Team; he is presently coaching the Cross Country Team. He holds a BA in Biology from the University of the South, an MS and in Biology and an MST in Mathematics from UIC, and an MED from UIUC.He has received 3 Awards of Excellence from The Illinois Math and Science Academy, has been recognized by Marmion Academy for Outstanding Teaching, participated in an NFS sponsored Quest for Excellence in Chemistry Education, served on the Fermilab Educational Center Program Advisory Board, and is listed in Who's Who in Education. Mr Frink began his teaching career in 1987 as a Biology teacher in the Crete-Monee school district.  He has been a teacher in District 53 since 1989.  During his time in the district he has taught science in grades 3-8.  His current assignment is teaching grades 6-8 science.  Mr Frink's undergraduate education was completed at Iowa State University with a major in Biology.  In addition he has two graduate degrees from The University of Saint Francis (Joliet).  A degree in Educational Leadership(Type 75 certification) was awarded in 2006 and a degree in Teaching and Learning was awarded in 2009(Technology Concentration). 

Overview of Curriculum

Grade Six Biology starts the year with a study of the scientific method, graphing and commonly used units of the SI system. Following this we will take time to learn some basic chemistry, concentrating on matter and the Periodic Table. After that unit we will begin the study of the human body. This unit has taken up much of the year in the past. The last quarter of the year is spent on the study of plants and ecology .

Grade 7 Biology is a continuation of the sixth grade experience. The year begins with a study of cells, cell crocesses and cell reproduction. Following this we study heredity. In this unit of study the students will be given a thorough introduction to the processes that govern how traits are passed on from parents to offspring. The remaining part of the year is spent studying the kingdoms: Bacteria, Protists and Fungi and Animals.

Grade 8 is a chemistry class. The year begins with a review of the scientific method, graphing and some basic SI units . Following this our studies take us on an exploration of matter, The Kinetic Theory of Matter, atomic structure and the Periodic Table. How matter interacts and forms various inorganic and organic compounds will be examined. In addition, solutions and moles are topics we study during the year.