Science

The Science Department believes that a basic knowledge of science is an important part of being an informed citizen. To this end, the department emphasizes critical thinking and analysis through hands-on laboratory work and active classroom discussion. Students utilize computers to conduct experiments, analyze data and communicate results through graphs and reports. Whether students are studying biology, chemistry or physics, the focus is on cultivating problem-solving skills.

Biology (Regular and Honors)

Third Form students will begin their study of science in a class that allows for active participation in the investigation of fundamental biological principles. Students learn basic data analysis and communication skills and build a strong foundation in the process of scientific inquiry. Students examine themes including structure and function, energy transfers, homeostasis, molecular basis of heredity and evolution. Emphasis is placed on developing strong note-taking and organizational skills, preparing lab reports and making oral presentations.

Chemistry (Regular and Honors)

Utilizing practical knowledge learned within a conceptual framework, students gain an understanding of modern atomic theory as it applies to the chemical interaction of matter. Students examine the nature of matter, atomic structure, a variety of aspects of chemical reactions, solutions and equilibrium, and they are introduced to both organic and nuclear chemistry. All discussions, lectures and lab work relate to the general theme of how matter and energy work together to produce interactions in the natural world.

Physics (Regular and Honors)

Students gain a basic knowledge of physical phenomena through the study of the major topics in physics: Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and waves. All physics courses explore the physical world while emphasizing systematic thinking, problem solving and experimentation. Students in the honors course apply mathematical principles learned in Algebra II to aid in problem solving.

Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy and Physiology is offered as an elective course available after successful completion of courses in biology, chemistry, and physics (or biology, chemistry, and AP Biology and AP Chemistry). Through a conceptual framework, students learn major organ systems in the human body. Instruction in this course is varied and includes laboratory exercises, animal dissections, and inquiry into fundamental physiological principles. Students develop skills that can be used to evaluate current medical and health issues.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science is an elective course designed to be a culminating experience for students who have completed the
department requirement of biology, chemistry, and physics (or biology, chemistry, and AP Biology or AP Chemistry). Students will be expected to apply concepts from biology and chemistry to environmental issues. During the first semester, students will study the concept of environmental sustainability as it applies to human health, ecology and biodiversity. In the second semester, environmental sustainability as it applies to the use of natural resources is the major area of study. Throughout the course, students will analyze case studies, discuss the impact of human activity on the environment, and participate in labs, research, and projects in order to deepen their understanding of the natural environment.

Advanced Placement Biology

Fifth and Sixth Form students may continue their study of biology in this second-year course, which is equivalent to an introductory college biology course with laboratories. While the major themes are the same as in the first-year course, students develop a deeper understanding of modern biology through study of topics related to these themes. Laboratory work is also more advanced. At the conclusion of this course students are prepared to take the AP examination.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

This second-year course in chemistry develops a deep conceptual understanding of chemical principles such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular modeling, multi-phase stoichiometry, chemical reactions, solution chemistry, kinetics, equilibria and thermodynamics of reactions. The classroom structure, combining daily work and class discussions with laboratory experimentation and the completion of problem sets, gives students solid preparation for the AP examination.

Advanced Placement Physics (B and C)

Physics AP-B is a first-year course that examines in detail topics in classical mechanics, thermodynamics, fluids, electricity and magnetism, waves and modern physics. Physics AP-C is a second-year course in which classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism are studied in greater detail through calculus-based problem solving and individually designed laboratory experiments. Students in both of these courses become skilled problem-solvers and thoughtful experimenters so that they are prepared to succeed on an AP examination.