Science Department

515 Honors Conceptual Physics     1 credit

Students who have demonstrated proficiency in analytical, mathematical and communication skills will examine in detail the concepts and principles of physics. Students will engage in laboratory work, develop concepts, and apply what they have learned.

542 Conceptual Physics     1 credit

Students will, through hands-on activities, develop the concepts and understand the principles of physics. Mathematical problem-solving skills and critical thinking will be used and developed, particularly in lab work.

520 Honors Biology     1 credit

Biology is the science that deals with living organisms. This laboratory-oriented course will emphasize a systematic approach to molecular, cellular and developmental biology; genetics; evolution; physiology and ecology, with a special emphasis on humans as a representative species in the study of anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of the major plant and animal groups will be integrated with other aspects of the course material. The course will teach science as a method of inquiry.

Note: Departmental approval required.

525 Honors Biochemistry     1 credit

This one-year, two semester course is designed to prepare students for the upper level Science courses offered in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Students will explore concepts of chemistry that directly impact biological functions, and they will be introduced to core concepts in biology.

Note: Departmental approval required.

521 Biology     1 credit

This course will introduce the student to the major concepts of modern biology, the science of living organisms. This laboratory-oriented course will emphasize a systematic approach to molecular, cellular and developmental biology; genetics; evolution; physiology and ecology. The structure and function of the major plant and animal groups will be integrated with other aspects of the course material. The course will teach science as a method of inquiry.

530 Honors Chemistry     1 credit

This course is designed to provide the students with a basic understanding of the fundamental laws and theories of chemistry. Unifying principles such as kinetic theory, mole concept, atomic and molecular structure, periodic law, and oxidation-reduction will be studied. Laboratory work will provide the basis for the development of these Principles.

Note: Departmental approval required.

531 Chemistry     1 credit

This course aims at providing the student with a solid background in the basic concepts and principles of chemistry. Topics under study include: atomic structure, periodic law, chemical equations and formulas, problem solving in mass relationships and energy changes, and the chemical bonding that produces molecular compounds. Laboratory work is designed to illustrate concepts and familiarize the student with techniques an equipment.

552 Anatomy and Kinesiology     1 credit

In this course students will be introduced to the principles of anatomy, physiology, first aid, and kinesiology that are the basis of athletic training. Students will also be introduced to the specialties that operate under the umbrella of sports medicine.

561 Environmental Science 1     ½ credit

Students in this course will receive an up-to-date introduction to the study of the environment. Information is presented from interdisciplinary perspectives, including ecology, geology, climatology, and political science, an approach necessary for dealing with environmental problems. Students will gain a working knowledge of environmental functioning to analyze environmental issues from a number of perspectives.

562 Environmental Science 2     ½ credit

Students will learn the science involved in analyzing environmental problems through hands-on explorations and labs. Students will use the skills previously acquired in chemistry, biology and physics to collect, organize and analyze data taken directly from the environment as evidence for the issues discussed in Environmental Science 1.

Prerequisite: Environmental Science 1

565 Forensic Science     ½ credit

This multidisciplinary, applied science encompasses the sciences, technology, mathematics, social studies and language arts. Students will gain a basic understanding of how these disciplines are used in criminal cases. Assignments will incorporate published works, case examples and forensic science techniques. This course will broaden students’ horizons regarding forensic science careers and will address how to pursue more advanced levels of study in this field.

580 I.B. Biology 11     1 credit

Upon completion of this course, taught at the I.B. Higher Level, students will have acquired an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the significance of local and global views of issues in science that impact a variety of other disciplines. They will also be able to seek answers actively to questions raised by advanced level biological concepts through guided and independent research. The skills of investigation and analysis students gain in this course will prepare them for advanced work in other scientific disciplines. The eleventh grade year of Biology will focus on chemistry as it impacts biology, cells, plant science, genetics and nucleic acids.

Note: Departmental approval required.

582 I.B. Biology 12     1 credit

Students will continue to develop the research and analysis skills begun in I.B. Biology 11. This course will focus on human health and biology; neurobiology and behavior; ecology, evolution and conservation.

Approval/Prerequisites: Successful completion of I.B. Biology 11.

584/586 I.B. Chemistry 11    SL/HL     1 credit

This exploration of “the central science” will combine academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills. It will follow the framework provided by the I.B.O., with a focus on ten core areas of Chemistry as well as concentrated study of Organic Chemistry and food Chemistry. All students will be required to complete the I.B. assessments.

Note: Departmental approval required.

585/583 IB Chemistry 12 SL/HL     1 credit

Students will continue to develop the research and analysis skills begun in I.B. Chemistry 11.