Academics Curriculum 2008-09

Science

The science program introduces students to the process of scientific inquiry using laboratory investigations, research, demonstrations, discussions, lectures, and readings. Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and astronomy are offered at both introductory and advanced levels.

Ninth graders begin the science program in physics, with or without Algebra I, depending on their math placement. Continuing as sophomores, students take biology. In the junior, senior, and postgraduate years, students choose from a number of options based on interest and demonstrated performance.

Successful study of the physical sciences—chemistry and physics—requires increasing mathematical sophistication starting with ratios, proportions, dimensional analysis, and graphing; progressing through solving first- and second-degree equations, logarithms, and trigonometry; and for advanced students, calculus. Computers are frequently used for data analysis and repetitive calculations. A graphing calculator is required for physics and some chemistry courses.

Enrollment in upper-level courses is limited; in cases of overenrollment, preference is given to four- and three-year seniors. Advanced placement courses have extended lab sessions three times each week and assign at least two hours of homework a night.

Click here for graduation requirements. Courses that meet the lab science requirement are indicated by *.

Astronomy
AST 311  Introduction to Astronomy (Not offered 2008–09)
Half credit*. Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Prerequisites: Geometry and one year of laboratory science.
This course introduces many of the wonders of the universe, using classroom activities, videos, observations, research, the Internet, and computers for sky simulation and image processing of real astronomical images from telescopes around the globe. Topics begin with a study of the motions of Earth, the sun, and the moon, and move on to the solar system, bright stars, and constellations, with topics added according to class interest.

AST 313  Observational Astronomy
Half credit *. Open to all students. Prerequisites: Algebra II, physics recommended, and approval of both the instructor and the student’s DL. Ability and willingness to attend class in the evening.
This course emphasizes the observational aspects of astronomy. Topics include the relationship between the earth and sky, the sun, the moon and the planets of the solar system, and the nature and distribution of stars and galaxies. Students will become familiarized with the night sky through observation and the use of star maps and computer planetarium programs. We will begin our observations with the unaided human eye and progress to binoculars and on to telescopes. Students will use their knowledge of the observing tools and the night sky to locate and study many objects including planets, binary and variable stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. An understanding of the stellar coordinate system and basic celestial mechanics will then serve as a basis for understanding how a telescope mount works. Students will develop an understanding of the charge-coupled-device (CCD), the heart of the digital imager, and elementary image processing. Once the student has become proficient in the use of the telescope and the CCD camera, they will spend the remaining time of the course taking digital images and processing them. Class will usually meet outside at the NMH observatory on clear evenings and indoors during cloudy weather.

AST 411  Astronomy                
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: Algebra II and a C or better in chemistry or physics.
This intensive introduction to astronomy uses a popular textbook and a wide variety of other learning tools such as the Internet, videos, slides, class discussions, research, and the Hands-On Universe curriculum materials and image processing software. Topics include traditional sky and constellation work, the solar system, stars and stellar evolution, black holes, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. Computers are used extensively for the image processing of real astronomical images from telescopes around the globe, for sky simulation work, and for searching the Internet.

Biology
The biology sequence begins with the sophomore-level course in biology. After completing biology, interested and qualified students may choose from a number of advanced elective courses or AP Biology. To be successful in the advanced biology electives, students should achieve a grade of at least C in sophomore biology. Entrance into AP Biology requires a written application and department approval.

BIO 211  Biology I
Graduation requirement. One credit*. Open to sophomores and, with department-chair approval, juniors. Prerequisite: None.
Using inquiry-based methods, students explore the principles and concepts of biology with emphasis at the cellular and organismic level. Classes include individual laboratory investigations, small-group work, and student presentations.

BIO 312  Botany
One credit*. Fall term. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Biology.
Lab investigations and greenhouse work supplement a study of plant biology ranging from plant biochemistry to field ecology. Students become familiar with plant structure and physiology. Field collection of plants culminates in an herbarium. Final projects involve student-designed experiments with extensive work in the laboratory.

BIO 313  Ecology and Field Biology
Half credit*. Spring term. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Biology.
This course explores the ecology of various terrestrial and aquatic communities and their characteristic plants and animals. Lab work and fieldwork are emphasized and are supplemented by lecture.

BIO/REL 1  Genetics and Ethics
One credit. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Biology. Students receive a half credit in religious studies and a half credit* in science. Read more

BIO 317  Human Physiology
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Biology.
This study of the systems of the human body emphasizes the relationship between structure, function, and homeostatic regulation. Lecture presentations are supported by an extensive series of laboratory investigations. Final projects are student designed and explore one organ system in depth.

BIO 511  Advanced Placement Biology
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: B+ or above in biology and chemistry. Application and department approval required.
This college-level course, based on the AP syllabus, studies molecular and cellular biology, physiology, genetics, and evolution. All major topics are accompanied by investigations from the AP syllabus.

Chemistry
The chemistry sequence begins with Chemistry I. Interested
students may also choose to take Chemistry II in preparation for the SAT II subject exam in chemistry. Finally, for interested and qualified students, the chemistry sequence ends with CHE 511. Entrance into the Extended Advanced Placement Chemistry course or AP Chemistry course requires application and department approval.

CHE 311  Chemistry I
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors, and, with department-chair approval, sophomores. Prerequisite: Algebra I; Geometry recommended.
This laboratory-based course is a study of matter and the changes it undergoes. Major topics include atomic structure, periodicity, and bonding; names, formulas, and reactions of chemical substances; the mole concept, including extensive stoichiometry, thermochemistry, aqueous solutions, kinetic theory, and gas behavior.

CHE 321  Honors Chemistry I
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors with department chair approval. Prerequisites: Grade of A- or better in a high school laboratory-science course and a grade of A- or better in Algebra I and Geometry.
This is a comprehensive introductory chemistry course. In addition to the topics listed in the description for CHE 311, the following topics will be covered: solution chemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and other topics as time permits. Successful students will be prepared for the SAT II Chemistry test. Candidates for Honors Chemistry should be accomplished math and science students who are prepared for a fast-paced, intensive science course.

CHE 312  Chemistry II
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Chemistry (a grade of B- or better is recommended).
Continuation of topics in Chemistry I, which may include, but are not limited to, acid-base chemistry, equilibrium, redox, electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, and advanced laboratory techniques.

CHE 331/CHE 511 B  Extended Advanced Placement Chemistry
Two credits upon completion of CHE 511B. Yearlong course. Students must be enrolled for both semesters. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: A- or better in Algebra II and A- or better in prior science courses. All students will be required to take the AP exam in May. Application and department approval required. 
This is a two-semester, college-level course intended for students who have had little or no previous high school chemistry. This course follows the AP curriculum and includes introductory material and advanced topics, including chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and basic concepts of thermodynamics. Candidates should be accomplished math and science students who are interested in and prepared for an intensive chemistry course.

CHE 511  Advanced Placement Chemistry
One credit*. Prerequisites: Chemistry and a physics course (PHY 211, MAT/PHY 1 and 2, PHY 421, or PHY 511). Application and department approval required.
This college-level course is intended for those students interested in pursuing a science or engineering major in college. Following the AP syllabus, this course includes an intensive review of first-year chemistry. Additionally, topics such as the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and the basic concepts of thermodynamics are presented in considerable depth.

Environmental Science
ENV 311  Geology
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: None.
This course is designed to be on par with a standard college-level introductory geology course. Students explore the major concepts of physical geology through observation and interpretation, using all of Franklin County as our laboratory. Students begin the semester with a study of the scientific method and the evidence for many of our current theories about geologic time and the formation, structure, and history of the earth. Identification of common minerals and rock types follows, including opportunities for frequent and in-depth field trips to local outcrops. The course concludes with an independent research project of the student’s own choosing, or in some years, with a class research project investigating a geologic question of local interest for which no complete answer is known.

ENV 411  Environmental Studies
One credit. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Biology. This course does not award laboratory science credit.
Working from a scientific foundation, students are introduced to environmental issues using an interdisciplinary approach. By exploring these issues through the humanities and social sciences as well as the natural sciences, students begin to understand the complexities of people’s relationships with the natural world and the challenges we face as individuals, as societies, and as a global community in charting a course for sustainable life on Earth. Topics explored in the course include the relationship of people with the natural world through time; ecology; population biology and human population issues; resource availability and use, including energy resources; pollution and wastes; environmental ethics and environmental law; and loss of biodiversity. Students learn about these topics through readings and discussion, as well as individual and group projects that offer opportunities to pursue personal interests in depth.

ENV 415  Environmental Studies: An International Perspective
One credit. Open to juniors and seniors who are enrolled in a study abroad course. Prerequisite: Biology. This course does not award laboratory science credit.
This course is designed to accompany study abroad programs as a third credit. Students will begin on campus with a general study of environmental principles during the first half of the semester, including ecology, population, water resources, energy, and waste. As the travel portion of their study abroad course approaches, they will prepare for a topic in environmental studies with specific application to their destination country. Once abroad, students will use available resources to deepen their knowledge of their chosen topic and to complete a research project related to the topic. Upon their return to campus, students will finalize their research projects and present their findings in a public forum to conclude the course.

ENV 511  Advanced Placement Environmental Science
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: Biology, chemistry, and strong language skills. Application and department approval required.
The goal of the course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them (or both). This interdisciplinary course embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Among the many topics covered are ecology, population dynamics, sustainable resource use, air, water, and soil pollutants, and global changes and their consequences. Field research, laboratory exercises in and out of the classroom, and a final project are all incorporated into the AP syllabus.

Related Course
INT 069  International Studies Program: Costa Rica Read more
Spring semester
An international studies program with an environmental science focus. The Costa Rican Environmental Program will allow students to study environmental science issues and basic scientific research techniques in a unique way. They will not only have the opportunity to investigate specific areas of their own choice, but also be able to experience the Costa Rican environment and see firsthand the very issues and topics that they are exploring in the field. Students earn two science credits, one in BIO 413 Tropical Field Biology and the other in ENV 412 Environmental Studies of Costa Rica.

BIO 413 Tropical Field Ecology
One credit. Spring semester. Open to juniors and seniors.  Prerequisite: Biology, a second credit in science, and permission of the instructor. Candidates’ qualifications are assessed in terms of level of academic achievement, maturity, and ability to work independently and within a group.

This course will focus on the skills and knowledge necessary to complete original research in Costa Rica. Topics explored in the course include forest structure, life zones, common organisms, ecosystems, biodiversity, evolution, and sampling and research techniques. Students will learn about these topics through readings, discussion, and lecture, as well as hands on projects that offer opportunities for individual research.

ENV 412 Environmental Studies of Costa Rica
One credit. Spring semester. Open to juniors and seniors.  Prerequisite: Biology, a second  credit in science, and permission of the instructor. Candidates’ qualifications are assessed in terms of level of academic achievement, maturity, and ability to work independently and within a group setting. This course does not award laboratory science credit.

This course will give the students an introduction to environmental studies with a focus on specific topics related to Costa Rica. Topics explored in the course include the relationship of people with the natural world, ecology, population biology and human population issues, resource availability and use, including energy resources; pollution and wastes, environmental ethics, and loss of biodiversity. Students learn about these topics through readings and discussion, as well as individual and group projects that offer opportunities to pursue personal interests in depth.

Physics
The physics sequence begins with physics for ninth graders. Entering juniors and seniors may elect PHY 421, or, if qualified, PHY 511 and PHY 611. The higher the number of the course, the more rapidly students move through topics and the greater the demand for mathematical sophistication. The PHY 511 course, for instance, is a college-level course, which covers, in a single semester, the same topics as both PHY 211 and PHY 421. The sequence ends with PHY 611, a calculus-based course. Entrance into PHY 421 and the AP physics courses (PHY 511 and PHY 611) requires department approval.

MAT/PHY 1  Introductory Physics with Algebra I (part one)
MAT/PHY 2  Introductory Physics with Algebra I (part two)
Two credits upon completion of MAT/PHY 2, one in science* and one in mathematics. Open to ninth graders. Prerequisite: None.
The ninth-grade Physics with Algebra I course introduces students to the concepts of physics as they learn and apply the tools of algebra. Topics in physics include motion in one and two dimensions, heat, electricity, radiation, and energy. Each topic is integrated into the standard Algebra I sequence. Laboratory experiments and research projects supplement the topics, and technology is used extensively. Those taking a math course other than Algebra I should enroll in PHY 211.

PHY 211  Physics
One credit*. Open to ninth graders who have completed Algebra I and sophomores who have completed biology. Prerequisite: Algebra I.
This course is designed for ninth graders who have already completed Algebra I and sophomores who have already taken biology. The course is the study of various forms of energy, including mechanical energy, thermal energy, wave and sound energy, light energy, and electrical energy. Students develop problem-solving skills and use laboratory experiments and projects to investigate these topics.

PHY 411B  Topics in Physics (Not offered in 2008-09)
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors who have not taken MAT/PHY 1 and MAT/PHY 2, or PHY 211. Prerequisites: Students must have completed Algebra I and Geometry.
In this introductory physics course, students explore the topics of energy, thermodynamics, waves, sound, light, optics, and electricity. In doing so, students develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of physics concepts through laboratory experiments and projects, computer simulations, graphical analysis, media presentations, and lectures. Students with strong mathematical backgrounds should consider taking PHY 421.

PHY 413  Physics Research
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites:
Algebra II and a course in high school physics.
Students strengthen their ability to develop and conduct scientific investigations. Starting with the review and study of standard methods of conducting physics experiments, students then do research to design their own projects, applying their understanding of physics concepts and investigative skills. Possible individual or group projects could include exploratorium displays, interactive exhibits, and sponsored science competitions.

PHY 421  Physics II
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: Algebra II. Department approval required.
This course is intended as an intensive introduction to physics for students with a strong background in mathematics, and/or students who have had previous coursework in physics. Topics include one- and two-dimensional motion, Newton’s laws, momentum, energy, gravitation, planetary motion, and relativity. This course is designed for the student who intends to continue his or her study of physics or chemistry in college-level courses, including advanced placement courses at NMH.

PHY 511  Advanced Placement Physics (B)
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: Precalculus and a previous high school physics course. Application and department approval required.
This course uses a college-level text and follows the AP Physics B syllabus to cover the main principles of physics at an accelerated pace. An emphasis on problem-solving ability and a strong foundation in physics topics prepare students who wish to study science in college.

PHY 611  Advanced Placement Physics (C)
One credit*. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisites: A calculus course and a previous high school physics course. Application and department approval required.
This college-level course is intended for science and engineering majors and follows the AP Physics C syllabus. Two major topics, mechanics and electricity/magnetism, are covered intensively. This course strongly emphasizes problem solving using calculus and other mathematical tools, as well as technology and laboratory investigations where appropriate.