Science
Investigating the Natural World
Gould’s corner of the natural world connects students to the wider world.
Science at Gould is rooted in place-based learning; mountains, forests, rivers, and coastline become natural classrooms for observation and discovery. Ninth graders investigate aquatic ecosystems by testing water quality on Songo Pond. Elective courses bring students to the coast of Harpswell to study crab populations or to the Androscoggin River to collect garnet samples for analysis in the lab at the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum. In every course, students engage in field research and build inquiry skills they can apply to the world around them.
Core classes in biology, chemistry, and physics lay the foundation for advanced study, where students with a passion for science can delve deeper into college-level subjects such as environmental science and forensics, often using outdoor learning as a starting point for lab-based investigation.
FEATURed Courses & Programs
Comparative Aquatic Ecology
This field-based course explores the health of Maine’s aquatic ecosystems, from the Gulf of Maine to the Androscoggin watershed. Students study native species and conduct water quality tests to better understand environmental impact and sustainability.
Forensics I
In this lab-based elective, students apply scientific methods to crime scene investigation, analyzing fingerprints, soil, glass, and other evidence. Students gain hands-on experience collecting and preserving physical evidence, as well as a deeper understanding of how science supports the criminal justice system.
Maine Mineral & Gem Museum Partnership
Just steps from campus, the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum (MMGM) houses the world’s largest collection of lunar and Martian meteorites and pays tribute to the rich geological history of Western Maine. Gould students collaborate with the museum’s geologists in MMGM’s state-of-the-art lab. An all-sky camera installed on the roof of McLaughlin Science Center helps track meteors in real time, part of a statewide initiative to locate fallen meteorites. It’s a rare chance for high school students to contribute to ongoing scientific research right in our backyard.
Environmental Science: Silviculture
By studying the forests surrounding Gould, students learn tree identification and sustainable forestry practices. Guest speakers and site visits—help connect environmental concepts to the local working forestry industry.
Earth Day at Gould
Each spring, Gould sets aside a full day to focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Students lead workshops, special guest speakers visit campus, classes delve into climate-focused topics, and the community shares a locally sourced meal in the dining hall.