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Science Department Philosophy |  | Science Department Philosophy
The objective of the Science Department is to provide a framework of fundamental scientific principles in order for students to see and understand science in everyday life. We strive to instill an appreciation for the complexity of nature and a sense of wonder about what is still left to discover. With a vast network of trails and a variety of ecosystems right here on campus, students are given numerous opportunities to see science in action. One of our primary objectives is to show students that science is a method of thinking about the world around them. Through experimentation and demonstrations, we encourage students to ask “Why?” and make a discovery for themselves, by themselves. We emphasize the ability to see patterns and connections between topics and across the many disciplines of science, as well as understanding the principles that govern these patterns. Specifically, we try to illustrate how mathematical procedures can be used as tools to enhance investigation of a scientific concept or question. We also help students to develop their critical thinking, so that they can identify situations in the media or elsewhere when scientific methods are misused or misrepresented. Ultimately, our goal is to instill a curiosity for knowledge in our students and to develop the logical, quantitative, creative, and scientific reasoning skills our students will need to seek out the answers to their questions.
Full-year Course Offerings: |
Environmental Science
Environmental Science is a hands-on course that studies how humans interact with the environment. The course focuses on ecosystems and populations, interactions between the living and nonliving world, and various mineral and energy resources. Throughout the year, units are tied into current issues in the media, including climate change, rising oil costs, and the ever-increasing demand for clean fresh water. Since environmental science is an interdisciplinary science, this course exposes students to core concepts in fields of study such as biology, earth science, physics, chemistry, and social science. This provides a strong foundation for future science courses at Dublin School and beyond. One of the main objectives of the class is to strengthen each student’s inquiry skills and his or her utilization of the scientific method to answer questions
Weather Camera
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Biology
In this course, students learn about the complexity of the living world around them. Specific topics covered include cell biology, genetics, botany, human anatomy, comparative anatomy, ecology, and evolution. These topics are tied into larger concepts, such as how biological form affects function, the interconnectedness of life, and the cycling of materials and energy in the living world. Teacher demonstrations, multi-modal student projects, and laboratory skills are emphasized in this course. Students are also given opportunities to develop their scientific writing skills through periodic lab reports and research projects.
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Chemistry
Chemistry is an opportunity for students to learn about the small-scale interactions of atoms and molecules that govern the living and non-living worlds around them. This course begins with concepts such as atomic structure, the periodic table, and basic chemical reactions. Special emphasis is placed on making these abstract topics come alive for students through demonstrations and current periodical articles. Students learn to predict the outcome of certain types of reactions by finding patterns in the physical and chemical properties of various substances. More advanced concepts such as the unique properties of acids and bases, organic chemistry, and radioactive decay are explored later in the year, as time permits. Lab work is a major part of first-year Chemistry, and students are asked to become more independent gradually in their lab work so that they may experience the true method of scientific inquiry.
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Physics
This course begins with such basic concepts as motion, forces, work, power, and energy. As the students become more adept at problem solving, more complicated concepts such as waves, energy transfer, sound, and the nature of light are investigated. The third trimester introduces the basic concepts of electricity and how they apply to motors and generators. This is accomplished through hands-on laboratory exploration and classroom discussions.
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Marine Science
This course is the study of the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of marine eco-systems. The dynamic equilibrium and diversity of these systems are discovered through lecture, class discussion, labs, and field trips. Special emphasis is placed on the survival mechanisms and limitations of flora and fauna. Field trips include visits to local aquariums, shoreline investigations, and boat trips.
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Advanced Placement Biology
Prerequisites: “B” or better in biology and permission of the instructor
Advanced Placement Biology is a challenging course similar to college-level biology. The topics of study are ecology, biochemistry, cell biology, energy transfers, genetics, evolution, mammalian and plant anatomy and physiology. The course consists of lectures, class discussions and many of the AP Biology laboratory exercises. To cover all of the material included in the AP Biology Examination, this course progresses at a fast pace and therefore requires students to read and study much of the material independently.
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Past Electives
Here are some Electives offered in the recent past. Current year electives will be determined by student and faculty interest.
Pollution
Adventure Expedition
Water and Rivers
Our Angry Earth
Stars and Space
Surviving Extremes
Anatomy & Physiology
Sports Medicine
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