Science

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

3 credits in Science must include one unit of physical sciences, one unit of life sciences and one unit of advanced study in one or more of the following sciences: chemistry, physics or other physical science; advanced biology or other life science; astronomy, physical geology or other earth or space science.

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COURSES

Freshman

Biology

Academic Pathway: Honors, Advanced College Prep, College Prep

Term: year-long course

Credit: 1 full science credit

This is a laboratory-oriented course designed for freshmen. The course provides an in-depth experience of biochemistry and cell biology and reinforces these concepts throughout the year.   Topics include the cell, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, protein synthesis, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Emphasis is given to developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students are to work collaboratively and individually to solve problems and investigate the latest information in biology. The course material extends beyond the classroom with experiences that apply to daily life.

Sophomore

Chemistry

Academic Pathway: Honors, Advanced College Prep

Term: year-long course

Credit: 1 full science credit

This course introduces basic topics of chemistry using an in-depth and mathematical approach.  Topics covered include measurement and problem solving, atomic structure, chemical bonding, the mole concept, periodic table, nomenclature and equations, stoichiometry, and solutions.  Some concepts have a strong mathematical emphasis. Concepts covered in class are applied to lab experiments and other activities.

Physical Science

Academic Pathway: College Prep

Term: year-long course

Credit: 1 full science credit

Have you ever wondered why some metals are magnetic, but others are not?  Or how do eyeglasses correct our vision? And how much solar energy can we get from the sun? In Physical Science, we will answer these questions and many more! We will cover introductory topics in chemistry –like how the number of electrons determines how elements bond with (or refuse to bond with) each other. Then, we branch into physics, exploring how and why things move the way they do. Finally, we will wrap up the year by exploring the stars and planets in our solar system! In addition, you will learn how scientists conduct their experiments and how scientific discoveries influence our everyday world.

Junior

SL IB Environmental Systems and Societies (Year 1)

Academic Pathway: IB

Term: Two-year course

Credit: 2 full science credits

ESS is a complex course, requiring a diverse set of skills from its students. It is firmly grounded in a scientific exploration of environmental systems in their structure and function and in exploring cultural, economic, ethical, political, and social interactions of societies with the environment. As a result of this course, students will become equipped with the ability to recognize and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world. The interdisciplinary nature of the course requires a broad skill set from students and includes the ability to perform research and investigations and participate in philosophical discussions. The course requires a systems approach to environmental understanding and problem-solving and promotes holistic thinking about environmental issues. It is recognized that to understand the environmental issues of the 21st century and suggest suitable management solutions, both the human and environmental aspects must be understood. Students should be encouraged to develop solutions from a personal to a community and to a global scale. Through the exploration of cause and effect, the course investigates how values interact with choices and actions, resulting in various environmental impacts. Students understand that the connections between environmental systems and societies are diverse, varied, and dynamic. The complexity of these interactions challenges those working towards understanding the actions required for effective guardianship of the planet and sustainable and equitable use of shared resources.

Physics

Academic Pathway: Honors

Term: year-long course

Credit: 1 full science credit

Physics encompasses everything from the large (the universe) to the small (subatomic particles) and serves as the foundation for all other physical sciences and engineering. In this course, you will learn about a wide variety of topics -- including how and why objects move the way they do (mechanics), what curveballs and peanut butter have in common (fluid mechanics), how electrons behave in atoms and iPhones (electricity and magnetism), the science of sounds and color (waves), why energy is both the hottest and coolest stuff (thermodynamics) and so much more!

Anatomy and Physiology

Academic Pathway: Advanced College Prep, College Prep

Term: year-long course 

Credit: 1 full science credit

Anatomy and Physiology is an introductory course designed to allow students to understand the relationship between the structures and functions of the body. Students will engage in investigations from the cellular level to the level of the organism to understand and explain the mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within the human body. This course will involve laboratory activities, dissections, clinical studies, and a field trip, providing students with a hands-on learning experience for exploring the human system components and basic physiology. Systems will be studied from an integrative perspective and cover the following: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive. Students completing anatomy and physiology will be prepared to apply their knowledge in medical fields, health and fitness careers, and post-secondary classes involving health-related fields of study.

Zoology

Academic Pathway: Advanced College Prep, College Prep

Term: year-long course 

Credit: 1 full science credit

Zoology is the study of animal life.  This course will survey the nine major phyla of the kingdom Animalia. This course will examine the genetic and physiological bases of animal behavior, foraging, habitat selection, communication methods, predator-prey interactions, symbiotic relationships, parental care, and social behavior of multiple fauna species. Students will also study how humans fit into the Animalia classification. Students will be provided opportunities to observe native and foreign species both inside and outside of the classroom. By the end of the course, students will be able to: Recognize and classify numerous species of fauna by analyzing behavior, genetic, and physiological characteristics. Determine the validity of scientific information through problem-solving and discussion. Identify the links between various animal species, including humans. Enhance critical thinking skills by engaging in scientific exploration.

Senior

SL IB Environmental Systems and Societies (Year 2)

Academic Pathway: IB

Term: Two-year course

Credit: 2 full science credits

FACULTY