Math & Science

Boy doing math Instruction in science and technology reflects the Next Generation Science Standards. Teachers use a variety of hands-on materials and experiences including Amplify Science (our state-adopted science material), Mystery Science, PORTS (CA Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students) video conferencing with CA Park Rangers, Natural History Museum, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Griffith Observatory, the San Pedro Naturalist Program, and CIMI (Catalina Island Marine Institute). Students use technology integrated purposefully throughout the curriculum to make a difference in the world. Students also have opportunities to learn computer programming and robotics. All students participate in the school-wide Math/Science Fun Day.

Science Programs

Champions for Change (Nutrition Network) & Garden Project
Our school participates in the Champions for Change program. We know that a healthy lifestyle is the best type 2 diabetes prevention. This program motivates students to eat fruits and vegetables and participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Additionally, our students can sample and taste a variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year in our school garden in cooperation with EnrichLA.

The program also provides soil, seeds, and garden materials for our healthy garden project where students plant and maintain a vegetable garden each year. Please support our efforts to increase student health by encouraging your child to eat fruits and vegetables, bring only healthy snacks to school, drink water instead of sugary drinks, limit sugary and salty foods, and exercise daily.

Hour of Code (grades 1-5)
Students have opportunities to participate in basic computer science experiences to demystify computer coding and encourage student interest in computer science during this event and throughout the year.

Math Science Fun Day (all grades)
Students learn and play with math and science ideas in fun ways during this annual festival.

Natural History Mobile Museum (Grade 3)
Third-grade students experience archeology and learn about the local Chumash Indians during the Natural History Mobile Museum visit as they excavate and analyze artifacts.

San Pedro Naturalist Program (Grade 3)
Local naturalists teach our third-grade students about the local flora and fauna. Students go on local hikes through Peck Park and at White Point Preserve and Nature Education Center.

Interactive Virtual Field Trip (Grades 3–5)
Students participate in an interactive virtual field trip with a State Park Ranger from one of many California State Parks through the PORTS Program. Students experience the State Park and may ask the ranger questions as they learn about careers, ecosystems, biodiversity, ecology, and biology. This is one exciting way to get our students to consider careers in STEM fields.

Science Olympiad Team (Grades 4–5)
Students with an enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics who are eager to collaborate are encouraged to join the Science Club. They develop team spirit and creative thinking while learning about STEM concepts. Students must commit to weekly after-school practice sessions. Park Western Place students took top honors at the 2015 and 2023 Elementary Science Olympiad.

CIMI – Catalina Island Marine Institute (Grade 5)
Fifth-grade students spend three days on Catalina Island studying nature during this outdoor education camp. Students participate in hands-on science labs and field activities, hike, and learn to snorkel as they explore and build teamwork.

Walk Through American Revolution (Grade 5)
Walk Through American Revolution is a fun, interactive program that allows our fifth graders to learn more about the American Revolutionary period in our country. In addition to learning about the important events and people of the period, students learn about the importance of liberty and freedom.

Math Programs

Math Science Fun Day (all grades)
Students learn and play with math and science ideas in fun ways during this annual festival.

Math Club/Math Field Day Team (Grades 4–5)
Individual and team work matter! Students are encouraged to join our Math Club. Students are coached on mathematical reasoning, critical thinking, and teamwork. Students must commit to weekly after-school practice sessions, persevere, bring their best attitude, and participate. Students try out for the PWP Math Team, which participates in the Los Angeles County Math Field Day Competition in April.