2012-13 upper school course description book - University Liggett ...

SCIENCE
The University Liggett School science department offers a comprehensive pre-kindergarten to grade 12
program with age-appropriate experiences throughout the curriculum. The faculty emphasizes
individual exploration and understanding through hands-on, laboratory activities. Technology has
become increasingly present in the classrooms, while the philosophy of the department remains processbased.
Enthusiasm for science as well as concept mastery is maintained through a dynamic program and
adaptable, innovative staff.
In Upper School, the science department stresses the importance of doing and experiencing at all grade
levels and in each discipline. Students learn methods of study and research as well as content. Through
their courses, students see science both as a process and as a body of knowledge. The study of science is
viewed as a vital step in the development of intellectual curiosity and analytical thinking. The
preparation of students as functioning and understanding citizens in a science-oriented world, as well as
the preparation of those students interested in future scientific careers, is the objective of the science
program.
Three credits of upper school science are required and must include one credit of Biology, one credit of
Chemistry, one-half credit of Physics (or any physics content course) and one-half credit of an elective
science course.
The recommendation of the department chair is required for enrollment in Honors. Students who enroll
in the Honors program are expected to complete the entire sequence of Honors Chemistry and Honors
Physics.
Biology
Full year, one credit
Students enrolled in this course will study cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, evolutionary theory, and
anatomy. Although focusing on human life, students will be introduced to other organisms that share
our planet. The structure of the course is organized by biological systems to provide students with the
opportunity to make connections between micro and macro-biology. Additionally, students are
introduced to upper level science lab techniques. The course is taught using the active learning model
which focuses on individual responsibility and collaboration to maximize engagement.
Chemistry
Prerequisite: Biology
Full year, one credit
This course is designed to give students a firm foundation for the concepts taught in most freshman
college chemistry courses. Students will begin the year understanding mathematical concepts such as
scientific notation and Avogadro’s number. Throughout the year students will move to larger ideas
about the world around them. The progression of topics covered will be the atom, compounds, states of
matter, types of reactions, introduction to thermodynamics, introduction to equilibrium, and nuclear
chemistry. Each topic will be supplemented with lab experience and demonstrations to enhance
understanding of the topic.
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