Science Department

Ninth-grade Biology is a comprehensive, investigation-oriented introduction and is intended to prepare students to better understand the development of life processes and living forms. Major emphasis is placed upon biological themes and key concepts within the framework of scientific inquiry. There are five major themes that define the study of biology: the cell; molecular basis of heredity; biological evolution; interdependence of organisms; and matter, energy, and organization in living systems. Essential to the understanding of biological concepts is a grasp of science as a process rather than only an accumulation of facts; personal experience in scientific inquiry; recognition of unifying themes that integrate the major topics of biology; and application of biological knowledge and critical thinking to environmental and social concerns.

Tenth-grade Chemistry is an algebra-based, college-preparation chemistry course that provides students with a working knowledge of chemistry, both in theory and in practice. In addition, this course is designed to assist students in preparing for science related professions and help them gain a general confidence in dealing with chemistry in day-to-day living. The students perform many hands-on experiments. Numerous classroom demonstrations make chemistry an interactive and animated experience. Major topics include: atomic structure; periodic trends of the elements; chemical bonding; chemical formulas and equations; acids, bases, and salts; the kinetic theory of matter; oxidation-reduction; principles of organic chemistry; nuclear chemistry.

Eleventh- or twelfth-grade General Physics is a course designed for college preparation. Mathematical models are used to describe physical phenomena, giving meaning to many of the techniques studied in pure mathematics courses. This course draws on the personal experiences of students in their everyday environment. Concept development is enhanced through a laboratory program that gets students involved in "doing" physics. The first half of the curriculum includes the main topics of mechanics: motion, vectors, momentum, work, and energy. The second half of the year is spent exploring waves (including light and sound), electricity, and magnetism.

Alternatively, students may take Conceptual Physics. In this course, less emphasis is placed on mathematics as students explore the basic concepts of physical laws and phenomena. Advanced students in all of the sciences are prepared to take SAT II examinations.

The AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college biology course. The course is taken after the successful completion of basic high school biology and chemistry. It aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. Hands-on laboratory work is meshed with interactive lectures.

This course is the equivalent of an introductory college chemistry course. It may be elected after the successful completion of high school Biology and Chemistry. The topics covered emphasize chemical calculations and mathematical formulation of principles. The laboratory experience is equivalent to that of a typical college course.

This course provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of physics and emphasizes the development of problem-solving ability both in theory (lecture) and in practice (lab). AP Physics is designed for students who have displayed exceptional interest and aptitude in their previous science courses, and is best suited for those who plan to pursue a college degree in physics, engineering or medicine. A math prerequisite through pre-calculus is strongly recommended.

Advanced Biology offers a non-AP alternative for students interested in a science course at the senior level. This course will offer the opportunity to build an understanding of life processes and to explore topics in anatomy, physiology and genetics, among others.

Forensics is an elective offered to eleventh and/or twelfth graders. Forensic science can be simply defined as the application of science to law. It is an applied science that encompasses the sciences, technology, mathematics, social studies, and language arts. The course incorporates many fun hands-on activities that enable students to apply principles learned in class. Topics covered include: history of forensic science, methods of processing a crime scene and evidence, fingerprints, hair and fiber analysis, and casting impressions.

Students in all grades have the option of pursuing science research under the guidance of a science research advisor who specializes in helping students develop their own research projects, which can then be entered in science competitions. Students meet with the science research advisor once a week, in addition to the time that they devote to their research independently.