Group 4 :: Experimental Sciences

•    Biology 9 Honors
Biology is the study of life and consists of a range of concepts from intracellular structures and functions to ecological relationships and species impact on the environment. Throughout the course students will focus on the relationships between organisms, and academic disciplines. Classroom assignments and assessments will include cooperative group activities, research from a variety of sources including the Internet, web quests, laboratory experiments (both student and instructor designed), and traditional assessments (tests, quizzes).

•    Chemistry 10 Honors
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Basic principles and calculations of chemistry will be covered with emphasis in the areas of atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular structure and properties; descriptive chemistry of the periodic table; acids, bases and salts; equilibrium; thermodynamics; oxidation-reduction and kinetics. The laboratory is an introduction to quantitative analysis and the study of atomic and molecular structures. Resources used will include internet, power points presentations, and various projects to accent the covered topics.

Diploma Programme Courses

•    IB Biology 11 [SL / HL]
•    IB Biology 12 [SL / HL]
Prerequisites: General biology and understanding of chemistry
Biology is the study of life and consists of a range of concepts from intracellular structures and functions to ecological relationships and species impact on the environment. Throughout the course students will focus on the relationships between organisms and academic disciplines. During the Diploma Programme Biology course the students will gain an understanding of 1) the world they live in and their role/impact on the biosphere, 2) evolution and its impact on the past, present and future of the world biosphere, 3) the scientific method and how to utilize it in solving a variety of problems, 4) how questioning and curiosity leads to discovery and exploration, and 5) how to communicate and work in groups.

•    IB Physics 11 [SL / HL]
•    IB Physics 12 [SL / HL]
Prerequisite: Strong Algebra II skills
Physics is an approach to understanding the natural world through the use of mathematics and physical relationships. During the two year IB Physics program the students will develop skills used in understanding 1) the universe, from the smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies, 2) mathematics, which is the language of physics, 3) the scientific method and how to utilize it in approaching and solving a variety of problems, 4) how questioning and curiosity leads to discovery and exploration, and 5) how to communicate and work in groups. Assessment of theoretical concepts will culminate at the end of the course in an exam format. The use of practical work by developing an appreciation of the hands-on nature of scientific work along with the benefits and limitations of scientific methodology will be assessed throughout the course.

•    IB Chemistry 11 [SL / HL]
•    IB Chemistry 12 [SL / HL]
Prerequisite: Strong Algebra II skills
During the two-year IB Chemistry programme, the students will gain an understanding of 1) the world they live in and their role/impact on the environment; 2) how scientists work and communicate with each other; 3) the scientific method which involves formation, testing and modification of hypothesis through observation and measurement under the controlled conditions of an experiment; and 4) environmental and technological contexts. The course aims to raise awareness of the social, moral and economic effects of science and a practical approach through experimental work.  Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigation skills. It is called the central science, as chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in which we live and all biological systems. Throughout the course students will focus on the physical, organic, environmental and modern analytical chemistry.