Science
Science
Grade 9: Physical Science
Physical Science uses the Essential Question of "Where do I fit into this world?" as the basis for the practice of scientific inquiry. It is an introduction to the physical sciences which provides a solid background in the fundamentals of physics and chemistry. This course seeks to cultivate strong laboratory, observational, and analytical skills by challenging students with experimental problems involving related physical and chemical phenomena. The course focuses on matter and energy and investigates the structure of matter, matter in motion, and the resultant energy exchanges and transformations. Extensive empirical observations, and measurements and analyses of collected data through graphing and basic math applications are conducted throughout the year. This class establishes a solid foundation for more advanced science courses.
Grade 10: Biology
This course emphasizes laboratory studies through a functional approach to the study of biology. Emphasis is given to the biochemical and physical constraints on life, using a molecular approach to understanding biology as the theme in both class and laboratory sessions. The course is divided into four major areas of study: unity and diversity, genetic continuity, structure and function, and organisms and environment. Students learn to synthesize this multidisciplinary information through lab activities, projects and presentations, in addition to more traditional testing.
Grade 11: Chemistry (for 04-05)
This course begins with an extensive review of the mole concept, chemical equations, atomic theory and periodic properties. It then covers molecular geometry, thermochemistry, states of matter, acids/bases, chemical equilibrium, reaction rates, electrochemistry, redox, nuclear chemistry, and a survey of organic chemistry. Wide use of demonstrations and laboratory exercises establishes an empirical basis for understanding chemical theory.
Advanced Chemistry
This class is an accelerated class and carries with it community college credit if successfully completed. The course content covers inorganic chemistry principles, typically covered in an introductory college chemistry course. It is designed for those students who have successfully completed high school biology and physical science and includes a two hour laboratory period once a week. The course will be offered at the Santa Fe Community College and taught by Santa Fe Community College instructors.
Environmental Studies
Students will come to understand environmental inter-relationships through exploration of biogeochemical cycles, food webs, carrying capacity, and energy flow within an ecosystem. They will explore human impacts on the environment, use and evaluate toxicological research, and evaluate proposals for ecological sustainability. They will use professionally accepted analytical methods for assessing the quality of air, water, food, and soil as well as for determining population size. Students will read both a classical environmental essay, such as Thoreau's Walden, as well as a more current text, such as Annie Dillard's Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. Students will be engaged in debate of current environmental issues, discuss environmental ethics, and participate in a community environmental project. Finally, they will develop, present, and justify their personal environmental philosophy.
Grade 12: Physics (04-05)
This problems-oriented course challenges the students both to conceptualize and to resolve problems in kinematics, dynamics, optics and electromagnetism. In the strong laboratory component, the students manipulate relevant equipment to make careful observations of physical phenomena. The course is supplemented with a number of films and many demonstrations. In addition to providing the students with a clearer understanding of the physical world around them, this course seeks to enhance their natural curiosity and strengthen their ability to reason clearly and effectively.
Science Electives:
Natural Technology and Design: Sustainability Practicum
This course will explore cutting edge technology and environmental solutions that will
exceed people's basic needs, support a local economy and regenerate our environment. Students will learn about fuel cells, renewable energy, permaculture, the concept of Cradle-to-Cradle, biomimicry and sustainable entrepreneurial skills. Become a leader in changing our society to have an equitable economy, flourishing environment and a vibrant society.