Upper School Science

Physics Grade 9 (Required)

Physics is the study of the fundamental laws of nature which underlie all other science disciplines.  Topics to be covered include mechanics, dynamics, energy, heat, gravity, electricity and magnetism, wave motion, sound and light.  The focus will be on conceptual understanding and will be taught on two levels of rigor depending on the mathematical skills of the students.  Advanced students will be challenged to solve problems with both a conceptual and a mathematical approach.  Laboratory activities are an integral part of the course.

Chemistry Grade 10 (Required)

Chemists study the structure of and changes in matter.  This course examines the principles of chemistry and their application to areas of societal interest in geology, atmospheric science, physiology, medicine and toxicology.  Topics include atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, quantitative chemistry, acids and bases, redox reactions, states of matter, organic chemistry and its applications, biochemistry, and polymers.  An extensive lab program provides students opportunities to observe, record, calculate and interpret data and to communicate results of experiments.

Biology Grade 11 (Required)

This course emphasizes the major themes in biology:  the relationship of structure to function, regulation, energy transfer, continuity and change, and interdependence in nature.  Topics include cell biology and biochemistry, Mendelian and molecular genetics, organismal structure and function, ecology, evolution, and diversity.  The substantial laboratory component emphasizes science as a process.  Students ask questions, design investigations, make detailed observations and present experimental results mathematically in written and oral presentations.

Human Physiology - (Elective)