Class XI Science Course Descriptions

ADVANCED BIOLOGY: Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry. This class is generally limited to students who have earned at least a B+ final grade and a B on the exam in prerequisite courses; however, exceptions may be made in individual circumstances. A more extensive study of areas first covered in Biology, including an in-depth investigation of biological processes with a focus on the scientific process, developing students’ scientific reasoning, and an introduction to the frontiers of modern biology through intensive investigation of selected topics. Topics include biochemistry, energetics, cell signaling, Mendelian and molecular genetics, mammalian physiology, ecology, gene regulation, cancer, bioethics, biotechnology, and evolution. Laboratory investigations include soil ecology, polymerase chain reaction, and genetic engineering; statistical analysis of data and mathematical modeling are emphasized. Students create an in-depth research proposal on a topic of their choice (also open to Class XII).

ADVANCED CHEMISTRY: Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry. This class is generally limited to students who have earned at least a B+ final grade and a B on the exam in prerequisite courses; however, exceptions may be made in individual circumstances. A deeper exploration of concepts presented in Chemistry with additional new topics. The course emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative understanding of the concepts, in addition to weekly laboratory experiences, with the goal of strengthening the ability to think like chemists. New topics include equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, redox titrations, molecular architecture and orbital hybridization, and an introduction to organic chemistry. Students learn new laboratory techniques, including the use of computer-assisted sensors, to gather and analyze data. Each unit relates chemical topics to real-world situations that include environmental issues (also open to Class XII).

PHYSICS: Through creative problem-solving, experimental design, and cooperative learning activities, students investigate the nature of forces and energy and their interactions with matter. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, and power; linear momentum; electric force, field, and potential; DC circuits and electromagnetism; green and nuclear energy; sound and light waves. Students investigate these topics both conceptually and mathematically, and explore multiple representations of concepts, with a focus on developing a body of knowledge, scientific practices, and a scientific worldview. Using the American Physical Society STEP UP: Physics Together curriculum, students also explore careers in physics and the underrepresentation of certain groups within physics as part of their examination of bias in science. Under certain circumstances, juniors who have been away during the first semester may join the course in the second semester (also open to Class XII).

ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (full-year, non-lab course): Students who have completed one year of Biology and one year of a physical science have the option of Advanced Environmental Sustainability, which does not have a lab component. How do we build an environmentally sustainable society to provide the world’s ever-growing population with food, energy, clean air, and water without depleting its resources and driving other species into extinction? This course focuses on the role of science, economics, and government policy in developing an environmentally sustainable world. Topics include food systems, energy production, climate change, freshwater resources, aquaculture, waste management, fast fashion, environmental justice, and biodiversity (also open to Class XII).