The Agnes Irwin School | Empowering Girls Since 1869
Science To graduate, students are required to take one year each of physics, chemistry, and biology. Physics I Physics I concentrates on developing an appreciation for and an understanding of matter and energy. Basic algebraic equations, appropriate to a first-year algebra student, are presented and applied, though the emphasis of this introductory course is conceptual. Topics covered include motion, energy, fundamental forces (gravity, electrostatic and nuclear), current electricity and waves, light, and sound. Instruction is augmented with relevant applications, interesting demonstrations, traditional experiments, and creative lab experiences, where students are presented with situational problems that they must analyze and solve. Emphasis is on relating the concepts covered in class to what is observed in the everyday world. Physics I Accelerated The Physics I Accelerated course is similar to Physics I, but geared toward students enrolled in an accelerated math track. Students are expected to enter the course with a solid grasp of Algebra I skills and also apply the concepts learned in Geometry to solving physics problems. Co-requisite: Geometry Accelerated and recommendation of the Science Department. Physics I Honors Physics I Honors is similar to Physics I Accelerated, but geared toward students enrolled in an honors level math course. The pace of the class and the depth of problem solving reflects the mathematical skills of these students. Co-requisite: Geometry Honors, Algebra II Accelerated, or Algebra II Honors and recommendation of the Science Department.
26 | SCIENCE
Chemistry I Chemistry I focuses on developing core concepts by expanding an understanding of the fundamental structures and properties of matter using the periodic table as a tool. Students explore atomic structure, chemical reactions, kinetic theory, and the nature of matter. While a quantitative component is involved, the primary goal of the course is to enhance an understanding of chemical concepts through the use of demonstrations, laboratory work and analogies. Examples of chemistry in everyday life and in industry are emphasized; students are encouraged to recognize and research the chemistry applications that are all around them. Chemistry I Honors In Chemistry I Honors, students examine the structure, composition, and function of matter and the changes it undergoes. Students begin with a review of measurement and calculations before moving on to the following major units: nuclear and electronic organization of matter, atomic structure, phases of matter, solutions and their behavior (including acids and bases), and chemical reactions (including thermodynamics and oxidation/reduction). The laboratory activities put theory into practice and makes chemistry come alive. Problem solving and analytical skills are a major emphasis throughout the course. Prerequisite: B in Physics I Honors, A- in Physics I Accelerated, or A in Physics I and recommendation of the Science Department. Co-requisite: Algebra II Accelerated or higher level math course. Biology I This course, a survey of the foundations of biology, uses a molecular approach that reflects recent developments in the field of the biological sciences. Topics covered include life processes and biochemistry, cell structure and function, animals and plants, microbiology, cell growth and division, genetics, DNA and RNA, genetic engineering, human body systems and ecology. An extensive component of theoretical and practical microbiology is included, incorporating a study of the structure and function of the microscope. The lab period allows students to organize and interpret results obtained by observation and experimentation.
