PhysicsBiology
The ruler-drop reaction lab
Catch a falling ruler, then use the physics of free fall to turn centimeters into your reaction time in seconds.
Sci5 Science Academy · Newton, MA
Rigorous, fun, in-person science on the AP® track.
Physics, chemistry and biology, taught with real math and a hands-on experiment in every class. Placement decides where each student starts, and students move up belt by belt by showing what they’ve mastered.
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- AP®Goal
Why science, why now
In Newton, science lags math.
On the spring 2026 MCAS, more than twice as many Newton 8th graders exceeded expectations in math as in science.
Sci5 gives science the same steady, step-by-step practice that strong math programs give math.
Math
30%
of Newton 8th graders exceeded expectations
Science
14%
of Newton 8th graders exceeded expectations
Source: Massachusetts DESE, Spring 2026 MCAS results for Newton, grade 8.
Inside a class
Two hours, once a week, in four parts.
A real question
Each class opens with a question worth answering, like why a seat belt saves lives.
Hands-on investigation
Students measure, test and collect data in small groups.
The idea, taught properly
The instructor explains the concept in depth, then students practice it on real problems.
Explain and stretch
Students explain their thinking out loud and take on a harder challenge.
Sample experiments
The kind of science students do.
Physics
Crash-test ramp
Double a toy car’s speed and measure how much farther it pushes a block. Hint: it’s not twice as far.
BiologyChemistry
Strawberry DNA
Dish soap, salt and cold rubbing alcohol pull visible strands of DNA out of a strawberry. An adult handles the alcohol.
Classes start Jan 2027.
Join the list to hear first about the open house and placement test.