Science

List of 4 items.

• Grade 9: Physics

  There is a striking beauty and elegance in the fact that we are able to describe and predict aspects of our physical world through the use of models that are often mathematical in nature. In this course, students perform a variety of activities to discover these models. Students are encouraged to ask questions and play with ideas, materials and new technologies. Topics discussed include laws of motion, vectors, gravity, energy, electricity, magnetism, atomic structure, heat, sound and light. By the end of the year, students will be prepared to enter Grade 10 chemistry with confidence because they will have an understanding of the rules that govern the complicated dance that atoms participate in—the rules of physics.

• Grade 10: Chemistry

  In this course, students explore the structure of atoms and the complicated dances in which atoms participate—better known as chemistry. Students learn how this knowledge can give us a deeper appreciation of our world and lead to wondrous new materials and applications. Problem-solving, the critical analysis of models and processing skills are emphasized, and students are encouraged to make connections to chemistry in their everyday experience. A well-equipped chemistry classroom enables students to have a rich, hands-on experience. Topics include scientific measurement and analysis, properties of matter, atomic structure, quantum theory, periodicity of elements, bonding, organic chemistry, chemical reactions, chemical quantities, thermochemistry, reaction rates, equilibrium, acid-base reactions and electrochemistry. The course requires a solid understanding of basic algebra.

• Grade 11: Biology

  With the discovery of the structure of DNA, the sequencing of the human genome and the advent of biotechnology, molecular biology increasingly affects our understanding of the underlying principles of biology. This course builds on previous knowledge to help foster a broad understanding of biological concepts. Major areas of study include the chemical basis of life, cells, similarities and differences in living organisms, evolution, reproduction and genetics. Major themes are homeostasis, the relationship between structure and function (on both macroscopic and microscopic levels), division of labor and evolutionary adaptations of various organisms. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of data generated through lab activities.

• Grade 12: Semester and Yearlong Electives

  Forensic Science: Criminal Behavior
  

  Why do some individuals engage in criminal activity? What are the behavioral, psychological, and cognitive factors that influence the likelihood of committing a crime. This college-level course gives students the opportunity to explore different theories in criminology and deviance. Through the lens of a forensic psychologist, students gain an understanding of abnormal brain structures and possible links to antisocial or violent behavior. Students will also learn about the process of criminal investigations, the collection of evidence, and the impact that social justice has on our current legal system.  Prerequisites: Physics 9, Chemistry 10, and Biology 11.
  
  Forensic Science: Evidence Analysis

  Did you ever wonder how scientists collect and analyze evidence for criminal investigations? Do contemporary crime shows accurately represent what it means to be a forensic scientist? This college-level survey course allows students to explore the many fields of forensics. Students will develop an understanding of evidence collection, crime scene investigation techniques, organic and inorganic chemical analysis of physical evidence, and biotechnology application in DNA analysis. In addition, students will explore fingerprinting, blood spatter analysis and the newly emerging field of forensic entomology. This elective will draw upon knowledge from introductory physics, chemistry, and biology courses and apply it to authentic case studies in criminology and forensics. Prepare to put your detective skills to the test.
  
  Environmental Science
  In this course, we will explore the scientific, engineering, political, legal, and equity dimensions of environmental science. Human use and transformation of the physical and living world have given rise to many environmental challenges. This will be a semester of constructive problem-solving for environmental management and imagining alternative solutions to our current trajectory. The issues explored will occur at different scales. Global issues will examine challenges that we face collectively as a planet, including population growth and climate change, and how environmental systems and disparate groups of people will be impacted in varying ways. Some environmental challenges are regional in nature, such as water scarcity, or soil and land remediation. Lastly, local issues, such as those specific to New York City and its surrounding areas, include questions of sustainability, waste and wastewater management, and adaptation for a changing climate. All of these questions require multiple perspectives and skill sets to effectively navigate. Through this course, students will develop both the paradigm and the methodology for analyzing complex environmental systems and, in the process, imagine creative and novel paths forward. Prerequisites: Physics 9 and Chemistry 10.

  
  Advanced Biology
  In the first semester, students explore the human genome through statistical analysis and cutting-edge biotechnology. They examine inheritance patterns, population genetics, and multifactorial diseases like Alzheimer’s and coronary artery disease. Using advanced genetic tools, they investigate the potential genetic links to opioid dependence, gaining hands-on experience with modern research techniques. Through statistical programming and computational modeling, students develop essential skills for analyzing gene function and understanding the genetic factors that influence disease. Are you curious about your inner fish? Why do evolutionary scientists say we come from the ocean? In the second semester, students explore the evolutionary connections between humans and aquatic ancestors through vertebrate dissections. By examining structural and functional adaptations across species, they gain insight into the links between evolution and physiology. Collaborative projects further their understanding of evolutionary biology, culminating in a capstone project on evolution and development. This year-long, college-level course combines data-driven analysis, hands-on laboratory work, and collaborative projects to provide students with a deeper understanding of both genetics and evolution. Prerequisites: Physics 9, Chemistry 10, and Biology 11. Grade 12.
  
  Advanced Chemistry
  This year-long, experiment-based course offers a rigorous, college-level introduction to chemistry. The first semester revisits core principles—ionic and covalent compounds, stoichiometry, combustion analysis, solutions chemistry, acid-base reactions, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics—while emphasizing real-world applications and lab techniques. The second semester focuses on organic chemistry, exploring carbon’s role in biological and industrial processes. Students study functional groups, nomenclature, stereochemistry, and key substitution and elimination reactions. This course is ideal for students with a strong interest in chemistry and mathematics who enjoy hands-on problem-solving. Prerequisites: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Grade 12.
  
  Advanced Physics
  This course provides a rich exploration of both classical mechanics and modern physics; topics that are part of a freshman college Calculus-based Physics course, and beyond. We begin by tackling a variety of complex physical scenarios, pairing a deep conceptual understanding with effective mathematical modeling. Using algebra, trigonometry, and Calculus, we will explore the topics of forces, motion, energy, torque, rotational and oscillatory motion. With the classical foundation in place, we then move to modern theories of physics, beginning with the essential understanding of electricity and magnetism. Mathematical modeling of these forces is both elegant and profound, and lays the groundwork for Maxwell’s Equations of Electromagnetism. The story continues with the current theoretical framework of modern physics: Quantum Mechanics and Relativity. These two theories have long been the pillars of modern physics successfully modeling our Universe from the scale of galaxies down to the elementary particles that are the building blocks of everything we know. The beauty of physics lies in its ability to explain so many of the physical phenomena we experience every day. This course is designed for students who like to puzzle through a problem, are comfortable moving at a brisk pace, and have a strong interest in physics and applied mathematics. Corequisite: Calculus; Prerequisite: Physics, Chemistry, Biology. Grade 12.