Departments
Science
The University High School Science Department
Science is more than a body of knowledge: it is a process that allows people to methodically study the universe, answer questions about it and gain an understanding of the complex inter-relationships that exist within it.
Strengths:
- Assignments vary according to students’ learning styles and processing skills.
- The department features a variety of hands-on learning opportunities that allow students to experience the process of science.
- Teachers incorporate technology into both the laboratory and lecture/discussion portions of each course.
- Science teachers emphasize the inter-connections between various science disciplines with applications to real-world experiences.
- The department offers multiple advanced-science electives.
Courses offered:
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Physics
Anatomy & Physiology
Astronomy
Biochemistry
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Organic Chemistry
Physics
January Term Courses:
Animal Behavior
Biotechnology: A Study of DNA
Forensic Science
History of the Atomic Age
Instrumental Analysis
The Nature of Science
Oceanic Studies
Organic Chemistry
Physics Seminar
Click here for course descriptions
Vision Statement of the University High School Science Department
Science is about developing answers to questions and problems, not just about memorizing facts, numbers and previously discovered knowledge. Thus, science is more than a body of knowledge: it is a process that allows people to methodically study the universe, answer questions about it and gain an understanding of the complex inter-relationships that exist within it. While learning the factual background in each discipline, science students at University High School gain experience in collecting data, analyzing information and drawing conclusions through a broad-based, hands-on science curriculum.Students propose and explore possible explanations for particular questions or problems by using information from class discussions, textbooks, scientific literature and laboratory activities.
Using the scientific process, students are encouraged to examine their understanding of how things function. Frequently, this process not only answers a question but also raises many more. In this way, students learn that science is a dynamic and continually growing field of study that requires training and practice in how to collect and analyze information. The scientific process expects students to set aside their personal beliefs and answer only the questions that their experimental evidence supports. By examining information and looking for recurring patterns in the biological, physical and sociological world, science lays a foundation for each student to build on to gain a greater understanding of the world around them.
Teachers use multiple approaches to instruction and assessment. This allows a wide range of students to engage in the subject and attain success. Assigned readings, classroom discussions and lectures, independent projects and hands-on activities that range from paper-and-pencil simulations to open-ended laboratory experiments cover the content. Assessment includes traditional tests, laboratory performance, written work and classroom participation.
By the end of their science education at University High School, not only will students’ factual knowledge base expand, but students also will know how to approach and solve problems in a scientific manner. Students will gain the scientific literacy necessary to understand the various technological issues facing society today and in the future, as well as develop an increased appreciation for the world in which they live.