Biology
Evolutionary biology provides a framework for understanding everything from ecology to human physiology and genetics. This course takes advantage of the expansive and diverse outdoor study areas on campus and off. Ecosystem biology frames the fall semester, concluding with a creative expression of knowledge and concern for endangered species. The content moves indoors and online in the spring for cellular biology, genetics and human physiology. We close the year with planning for Earth Day and a unit on botany and local food production.
Text/materials needed: TBD
Ecology
Ecology is a full year field course introducing the student to basic ecological concepts. While wading, canoeing and hiking the class will study the abundant stream, lake, bog, swamp, marsh, dune, field and forest habitats of the area. The course is presented as a synthesis of the naturalist's sensitivity and the ecologist's understanding of the natural world. From frequent contact with and exposure to nature firsthand it is hoped that an awareness and appreciation of the beauty and interdependence within the natural world is kindled. The prime goal of the course is the development of an ecological ethic.
Text/Materials Needed: TBD
Chemistry I
This course offers the student a modern, relevant course in high school level chemistry. The program combines the theory and concepts of chemistry with practical applications for a basic program for high school students. Atomic structure, chemical bonding, and molecular changes are unifying concepts. Demonstrations and laboratory activities are an integral part of the course, emphasizing quantitative as well as qualitative relationships. Students are given the opportunity to explore particular topics in chemistry of special or personal interest through a variety of research methods. A strong mathematics background is recommended.
Text/materials needed: Chemistry textbook (by Kelly Deters; electronic textbook), Scientific calculator (TI-84 graphing calculator recommended), Composition notebook for labs, writing utensils, and paper.
Advanced Chemistry: Atoms
This class meets during the first semester and can be taken on its own or students can continue with Advanced Chemistry: Reactions. This course will focus on the historical development of the atomic theory up to and including quantum theory. These theories will then be used to understand nuclear chemistry, bonding theories and how molecules interact. Applications of the theories and laboratory experiments to explore these concepts will be incorporated into the class.
Text/materials needed: Spencer, Bodner and Rickard, Chemistry: Structure and Dynamics Scientific calculator (TI-84 graphing calculator recommended) Composition notebook for labs, writing utensils, and paper.
Advanced Chemistry: Reactions
This class meets during the second semester and can be taken on its own or after taking Advanced Chemistry: Atoms. This course will focus on advanced chemical reactions. Topics studied will include electrochemistry, thermochemistry, kinetics and equilibrium. Applications of these theories will also be explored. Applications of the theories and laboratory experiments to explore these concepts will be incorporated into the class.
Text/materials needed: Spencer, Bodner and Rickard, Chemistry: Structure and DynamicsScientific calculator (TI-84 graphing calculator recommended) Composition notebook for labs, writing utensils, and paper.
Physics
This is an activity-based as well as a learner-centered introductory course that covers a variety of Physics topics such as classical mechanics, acoustics, optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics (Special Theory of Relativity and Quantum Mechanics.) Students conduct experiments, discuss demonstrations, complete presentations, and engage in group activities to better understand the physical laws governing the universe and in many cases will rediscover those very laws.
eTextbook/materials needed: Knight, Jones, & Field, College Physics, 2nd edition with Access Key to MasteringPhysics (an online learning management and tutorial delivery system)Graphing Calculator (TI 84 or higher),notebook, and writing tools.