Science 

The science department seeks to provide a varied and comprehensive set of course offerings fulfilling the goal of helping students to appreciate the role of science in understanding the world around them.  We do this in the context of a rigorous college preparatory curriculum which will prepare them for further study.  Problem solving, careful observation, and thorough laboratory work are essential skills promoted by this curriculum.  We offer a balance of life and physical sciences, from introductory to AP levels.  Our offerings rely on both our natural surroundings and modern facilities, including our observatory, weather station and seismograph.  The science department is committed to a vibrant program introducing all students to science in a manner promoting critical thinking and discovery.

Introductory Physical Science 

Introductory Physical Science is a course designed to introduce freshmen to the fundamentals of scientific work through the study of basic physics.  Much of the year is spent on the fundamentals of mechanics, from the description of motion through the consequences of Newton’s laws.  In addition, students study wave phenomena, including light, sound and electricity.  The course touches on aspects of chemistry, as well.  Laboratory work and analysis is emphasized.  Students learn by doing and then search for patterns in their results.  This search for pattern inevitably introduces them to the role of mathematics in science.  Lab writing is also taught in a manner that helps prepare them for the demands they will face in upper level courses.  Thus, Physics is used as a template for the study of science in general.

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

Biology 

In this course, students learn about the complexity of the living world around them. Specific topics covered include ecosystems and communities, cell structure and function, cell respiration and growth, cancer, genetics, DNA and RNA and Genetic engineering 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 into the living world.  Teacher demonstrations, multi-modal student projects and research, and laboratory skills and writing are emphasized in this course.  Students are given opportunities to develop their scientific thinking, writing and researching of a variety of topics intertwined with major course concepts.

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. 

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. 

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. 

Advanced Placement Courses

Prerequisites: “B” or better in appropriate previous course and permission of the instructor.

Advanced placement courses are offered in Chemistry, Physics and Environmental Science, on a rotating basis.  These are demanding, college level courses with heavy laboratory components.  Students are prepared for the AP exam in May.  Success on that exam carries college credit.  AP courses are designed for those students willing to commit the time and intellectual discipline required for mastery of material at an advanced level.

Past Electives 

Here are some Electives offered in the recent past. Current year electives will be determined by student and faculty interest.

• Marine Biology
• Psychology
• Astronomy (three term sequence)
• Our Angry Earth (geology and climate)
• Anatomy & Physiology
• Sports Medicine