Course Descriptions

Environmental Science

The Big Bang Theory;  weather; climate change - all heady subjects, all integral to our study of humanity’s place in the universe.  Environmental Science students will explore the Earth’s place in the universe and human interaction. Further, they will study the impact on Earth through a unique combination of multimedia and hands-on activities designed to put students’ experiences into perspective with regards to the long history of everything around them.  By the end of the course, students will have practical knowledge of such varied topics as planetary motion and earthquakes.   

 

Biology

Biology is the study of life. What is it? How do you stay alive? Students will learn what it takes to truly be alive through a unique blending of field and lab studies. Young scientists will implement interactive notebooks and digital portfolios to document their observations, predictions, and revelations. Students will have practical lab experience and digital dissection training upon the completion of this course.

 

Chemistry

This class focuses on the subatomic level and how interactions within this realm produce global change. The students will learn what matter is composed of and its interactions with everything we see, feel, and hear. By delving into the invisible world of chemistry, students will get a glimpse backstage into the wondrous universe. From nuclear energy to periodic table trends, this course will provide an enriching educational experience for all.

 

Forensic Science

How do you catch a criminal? That is the question that this guiding and scientifically rigorous class attempts to answer. Through new-age techniques and historical precedents, the topic of legality and CSI merge into this cause-and-effect course of intrigue and deceit. From fingerprinting to DNA analysis, students will get a front row seat into the inner workings of our criminal justice system. Moreover, they will learn how the guilty get convicted and the innocent get exonerated in the United States.

 

Marine Biology

This course is designed for students with an interest in marine biology and oceanography and will provide excellent background for further study of the oceans and the organisms that inhabit it. Major concepts include the study of: the interrelationship of marine and terrestrial environments, the geology of the oceans, marine organisms, and the ecology of coral reefs. Students will learn about the physical structure and chemistry of the ocean, the diversity of ocean life, marine ecology, and the scope and impact of human interactions with the oceans. Laboratory activities reinforce concepts and principles presented. Laboratory activities, including the examination of marine specimens are utilized throughout this course to build upon student knowledge.