The Lab Report: Why do I have to learn science?

In elementary school we all took science classes to learn about the world around us, our bodies and why things are the way they are.  In secondary school science becomes much more rigorous; the vocabulary and math are much harder and the concepts become abstract and difficult for students to grasp quickly. So why do we subject our students to this level of rigor and the associated headaches - after all, most students will not go into science as a career?

My best response to my new student is that we study science in order to develop skills and strategies that will help them later in life regardless of their career paths. When Isaac Newton ushered in the "scientific revolution" almost 400 years ago it was simply because he used math to measure the world around him. This quantitative approach is one of the most powerful tools in human history.  By analyzing his observations objectively, logically and precisely Newton was able to connect his observations to other physical phenomenon and gain a deeper understanding of his world.

This approach unlocked the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particle and spawned our modern, electronic age.  This approach coupled with what would become known as "the scientific method" is the foundation of modern science.

In general, these principles can guide our students through not only their science classes but their other classes; as well as the intricacies of everyday life; by analyzing, assessing and connecting the seemingly disparate concepts and ideas they encounter everyday.  

By teaching and reenforcing a scientific approach to questions and problems, we are instilling in our students the notion that problems can usually be solved calmly and logically and that with a modicum of thought and patience they can deal with and overcome any obstacles to success.