Pure & Applied Science

Department Chair: Elizabeth Davis

In a world increasingly shaped by and comprehended in terms of science and technology, it is important that our students be prepared to understand, evaluate, and use the knowledge and methods of those disciplines. The science program seeks to teach basic scientific principles, skills, and habits of critical and analytical thinking through strong foundations of learning in the biological, physical, and environmental sciences. Students with high interest and ability have the opportunity to pursue these disciplines at advanced levels. We strive to instill in each student an awareness of her natural environment, including the principles and processes that govern it. We also hope to offer students the opportunity to explore problem solving through applications in forensics, engineering, robotics, computer programming and our Science Research Program.

Nine Upper School credits, including Biology, are required for graduation.

A student typically takes one science course at a time for each of her four years. If a student is particularly interested in this discipline and has received the approval from her teachers, Class Dean, and Upper School Director, then she may consider doubling up in science during her junior or senior year.

Middle School

Science 7, Grade level: 7

Seventh grade science is an integrated science course which will investigate aspects of Chemistry, Life Science, and Earth Science Students study things as small as cells to concepts as large as global climate. Each one of these areas of study not only encompasses scientific content, but also includes related scientific skills and processes. The year starts with a unit on physical properties of matter and a focus on observation, measurement, and graphing. The year continues with units on materials science, evolution, and biodiversity. We end the year with units on Ecology and Earth Science and a project emphasizing engineering and design.

Science 8, Grade level: 8

Eighth grade science continues with a second year of integrated science topics. This exploratory course begins with investigations of atomic structure, the periodic table and compounds. Chemical reactions are studied using cellular processes including photosynthesis and cellular respiration. We then transfer this chemistry background into a unit on the chemistry of life, including an study of DNA. We continue our life science unit by studying mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics, and heredity. We later apply the chemistry knowledge gained early in the year to earth science, applying the ideas of physical and chemical properties and reactions to the processes that have formed the earth, as well as to current issues such as deforestation and global temperature changes. Throughout the year, there is a focus on the development of lab skills, experimental design, and scientific writing, ultimately enabling students to complete independent laboratory experiments and write full lab reports.

Upper School

Physics, Grade level: 9, Co-requisite: Algebra 1, Credits: 3

This is an introductory course that explores major topics in physics including fundamentals of waves, mechanics, and thermodynamics. Students will apply algebra skills to problem solving throughout this course and laboratory investigations and hands-on explorations of the concepts will be an integral component of the student learning experience. The course focuses on application of skills and concepts rather than memorization.

Physics Honors, Grade level: 9, Pre-requisite: Algebra 1, permission of the department, Co-requisite: Geometry, Geometry Honors, Credits: 3

This is a demanding introductory course that explores major topics in physics including fundamentals of waves, mechanics, thermodynamics, and electrostatics. Students will apply advanced algebra skills in addition to the skills being learned concurrently in Geometry to problem solving throughout this course. Laboratory investigations and hands-on explorations of the concepts will be an integral component of the student learning experience. Students must exhibit a willingness to take risks, learn from mistakes, and manage the uncertainty that learning concepts through experimentation involves. The course focuses on application of skills and concepts rather than memorization.

Chemistry Foundations, Grade level: 10, Co-requisite: Geometry, Geometry Honors, Credits: 3

Chemistry Foundations emphasizes the descriptive perspectives and applications of Chemistry. It takes the approach of integrating theories with laboratory experience and projects. The students are exposed to central themes and enduring principles: the arrangement of atoms, ions and molecules and their consequential physical and chemicals properties, the change in matter involving the rearrangements of atom and transfer of electrons, chemical quantities, and energy involving the chemical processes explaining and predicting the direction of change in matter. The course offers students insights in Chemistry and a deeper appreciation of its strong relevance to daily life.

Chemistry, Grade level: 10, Co-requisite: Alg 2/Trig, Credits: 3

Chemistry is a quantitative laboratory science in which students investigate the composition of matter and the physical and chemical changes it undergoes. The fundamental structure of atoms is used to understand interactions between matter and energy. Topics include: scientific measurement and problem solving, compound naming and formula writing, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, limiting reagent, electron configurations, periodicity, chemical bonding, phases of matter, intermolecular forces, gas theory, solution properties and concentration, thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, reaction rate, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, redox reactions, and nuclear chemistry. Students explore many of these chemistry concepts through laboratory investigations and in-class demonstrations.

Chemistry Honors, Grade level: 10, Co-requisite: Algebra 2 and Trig or higher; permission of department required, Credits: 3

Honors Chemistry starts with nomenclature and then gradually builds up students’ knowledge and insights into various chemical processes and reactions. Designed for the students with high motivation and a strong mathematical skill, the course takes a rigorous and aggressive approach addressing central topics in general inorganic and basic organic chemistry with strong integrations of quantitative analysis and weekly experimental experience. The students are prepared to take SAT Chemistry subject test, and to participate in the regional chemistry team competition (Chemathon).

Biology, Grade level: 11, Pre-requisite: Chemistry- any level, Credits: 3

A comprehensive view of the living environment, Biology will emphasize the interactions of living organisms with a focus on cell processes, genetics, biodiversity, evolution, and ecology. Major themes will include inquiry, science investigation, relationships amongst organisms, and homeostasis. Student will be encouraged to sit for the SAT subject test in Biology E (ecological approach).

Biology Honors, Grade level: 11, Pre-requisite: Chemistry, permission of department, Credits: 3

A comprehensive view of the living environment, Biology will emphasize the interactions of living organisms with a focus on bioenergetics, genetics and molecular biology, evolution, and ecology. Major themes will include inquiry, science investigation, data analysis, relationships amongst organisms, and homeostasis. Student will be encouraged to sit for the SAT subject test in Biology M (molecular approach).

Forensics: Analysis of Trace Evidence (Fall trimester), Grade level: 11, 12, Co-requisite: Biology, Credits: 1

Using reference materials such as Saferstein’s Criminalistics, Deslich’s and Funkhauser’s Forensic Science and Henry Lee’s Cracking Cases, students will explore introductory forensic science through a variety of class discussions, laboratory experiments/simulations and case analyses. Topics will include crime scenes, physical evidence, toxicology, fingerprints, and forensic serology. Students are assessed through tests, written critical analyses, and lab activities.

Forensics: Beyond the Crime Scene (Winter Trimester) Grade level: 11,12, Co-requisite: Biology Credits: 1

Through a variety of non-fiction texts and primary sources, students will explore some of the more specialized fields of introductory Forensic Science. Lectures, case analyses, lab simulations, and discussions will expose the students to the specialties of forensic handwriting and linguistics, ballistics, impressions, entomology, and anthropology. (Forensics: Trace Evidence is not required for this course)

Computer Programming & Robotics (Winter Trimester), Grade: 11, 12, Credit: 1

The focus of this course will be programming, modeling, and problem solving explored through a variety of methods. Students will develop their technical problem solving skills and learn to use MATLAB software. They will also be using ICGUI (a version of C) to program robots and machines. In all cases, students will use logic, problem solving, and programming techniques to create algorithms and functions to solve challenges. Using sensor units, we will also discuss control systems and feedback from sensors (biofeedback, security monitoring - for example). Projects will have a group focus and presentations and report summaries will be required for each project. (This course is required for students pursuing a science research internship in engineering, but open to all eligible students)

Microbiology (Winter Trimester), Grade Level: 11, 12, Credit: 1

Using Zimmermans’ Killer Germs and Bergey’s Determinative Guide, students will explore basic microbiology and infectious disease. The course will examine the common features of prokaryotes and other unicellular life including a survey of microbiology, virology, and parasitology. Students will keep regular lab journals chronicling their experiences with sterile technique, culturing methods, bacterial metabolism, classification and staining techniques. Research into global infectious disease is the culminating project of the course. (This course is required for student pursuing a science research internship in biological studies, but open to all eligible students)

Science Literacy: Busting Myths in Science Media (Spring Trimester), Grades: 11,12, Credit: 1

We are bombarded in the media, television, movies, and literature with science facts and ideas — are they real science? We will explore how to resolve fact from fiction and create scientifically literate citizens. Students will also learn to recognize their own neurological shortcuts and blind spots. In addition, students will look at how science is viewed across different cultures. The class will look at some popular myths…Can anyone hear you scream in space? Is it true we only use 10% of our brains? Is anything from Star Trek based on real science? A coin tossed off the Empire State Building can kill a person? If you jump up just before your falling elevator crashes into the ground you will be safe?

In order to further our understanding, students will be engaged in activities to model the concepts and then prove or disprove the science. Students will also be encouraged to generate their own science challenge. They will then craft, implement, test and summarize their challenges in a formal report. (This course is required for students pursuing a science research internship in engineering, but open to all eligible students)

Earth & Space Science (Fall trimester), Grades: 11, 12, Credit: 1

This course is designed to be an overview of topics of Earth & Space Science including but not limited to geology, meteorology, the solar system, and stellar formation and evolution. Methodologies include research, stargazing and weather forecasting. Students will complete projects, presentations, data collection and analysis, and short topic papers. This course is an overview of the presented topics and the focus is on investigations and projects that will lead students towards a deeper understanding of the topics.

Molecular Biology (Spring trimester), Grades: 11, 12, Credit: 1

Molecular Biology will introduce students to the applied science of recombinant DNA, biotechnology, and how knowledge of DNA is informing the use of science in social, medical, legal, and environmental issues. Topics will include an analysis of DNA technologies including restriction enzymes digests, recombinant DNA technologies, Polymerase Chain Reaction, gel electrophoresis and bacterial transformation. The bulk of the course focuses on laboratory techniques and hands-on activities. (This course is required for student pursuing a science research internship in biological studies, but open to all eligible students)

Introduction to Engineering, Grade level: 10 (with departmental permission), Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trig or higher, 11, 12, Credits: 3

Introduction to Engineering is a project-based course where students work in collaborative teams. Basic concepts of the engineering design process and teamwork are central to each activity. Students are engaged in hands-on experiences and learn through doing. The course relies on modeling, problem-solving, and documenting the progress of each project. The course also discusses the ethical choices of engineering and how technology can make an impact on society. Introduction to Engineering is designed to challenge and inspire. During the last trimester, students will learn to program in Swift. Swift is a robust and intuitive programming language created by Apple for building apps for iOS, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch

Will be offered if numbers allow.

Advanced Global Applications in Environmental Science, Grade level: 12, Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry or Chemistry Honors; permission of department, Credits: 3

In this advanced level applied science course, concepts from biology, chemistry, earth science, politics and economics, history, and global education are all incorporated into the curriculum. Instead of a traditional textbook, students read current events articles and primary sources such as United Nations reports, to learn the scientific concepts in context of the real world. Students will examine the Sustainable Development Goals and the Index and Dashboard Reports from various countries to determine underlying challenges associated with developing solutions to current environmental dilemmas. Inquiry laboratory investigations are integrated throughout the course, including a year-long study of the water quality of Booze Creek. Students will complete authentic assessments throughout the course, including a TedTalk on an endangered species, a scientific research paper on water quality, infographics, and podcasts. In the projects, students have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the concepts and express their own thoughts about how we should address the needs of both the planet and the people. Students have the option of taking the AP Environmental Science exam at the end of this course and will be advised of any topics they need to cover on their own.

Advanced Topics in Biology, Grade level: 12, Prerequisites: Chemistry, Chemistry Honors, Biology or Biology Honors; permission of department, Credits: 3

The Advanced Topics in Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of one introductory course usually taken by biology majors during their first year of college. Building on concepts learned in the first year of Biology, the course examines complex cell energetics, molecular biology, gene expression, evolutionary relationships, and biodiversity. Students will learn to synthesize and connect information through inquiry-based laboratory investigations, discussion based case analyses and traditional assessments. Students have the option to sit for the AP Biology exam and may be advised of topics that are not covered in the curriculum.

Advanced Analytical Chemistry, Grade level: 11, 12, Prerequisites: Chemistry Honors or Chemistry (summer work required) and permission of the department, Credits: 3

The Advanced Analytical Chemistry is designed for the students with high motivation and strong mathematical skills. The course will take a rigorous approach to thematically and empirically tackle central topics in general inorganic and basic organic chemistry with aggressive integration of quantitative analysis and frequent inquiring-driven lab investigations. Topics include states of matter, physical and chemical interactions, stoichiometry, equilibrium, electrochemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics and organic chemistry. Students enrolled in this course will have opportunities to participate in the annual regional chemistry team competition – the Chemathon http://blog.umd.edu/chemathon/ and US National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/students/highschool/olympiad.html. Students have the option of sitting for the AP Chemistry exam and will be advised of any topics they need to cover on their own.

Advanced Analytical Physics, Grade level: 12, Credits: 3

This is an advanced level applied science course in Physics that incorporates mathematics and problem solving. The course is intended for students who have already completed Physics in the 9th grade. The course is divided into four major themes: Amusement Park Physics, Renewable Energy, Crash Test Dummies, Becoming a Cyborg. Students will engage in real world scenarios to solve problems. In depth research, application, practice in problem solving, and presentation of solutions will be elements of the class. Each topic will culminate in a major project where students have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the concepts and express their own thoughts about how to apply physics to solve the problems. Students have the option of taking the AP Physics 1 exam at the end of this course and will be advised of any topics they need to cover on their own.

Science Research Program, Grade level: 11, Prerequisite: Permission of department; limited to up to 12 students, to be selected through an application, interview and permissions process. Credit: 1/3 (Pass/Fail)

The Science Research Program prepares students for a summer internship in a field of scientific study. Course registration initiates an application-based process including an interview with the science department, teacher and dean recommendations, and demonstration of student interest. Academic aptitude, as well as social maturity, is considered for participation in the program. Students wishing to pursue a science research internship in a biomedical related field are required to take Molecular Biology and Microbiology (two separate trimester electives); students wishing to pursue an internship in an engineering or physical science lab are required to take Computer Programming and Robotics and Science Literacy (two separate trimester electives). The coursework will help prepare the student for work in a professional research lab. Students will be placed under the supervision of an on-site supervisor, with whom she will collaborate to construct a plan for summer study. The time commitment for the internship is eight consecutive weeks to be decided upon by both student and mentor. The student must understand that seeking a science research internship is a priority, and thus it may not be possible to pursue other lengthy summer commitments in addition to the science research internship. At the end of the summer, the student will present her research at a poster session for the Upper School community.

Pure and Applied Science FAQs

How are placement decisions made about grade 9 grade physics?

There are a number of factors that determine whether a student takes Physics, or Physics Honors in grade 9. Students must meet the math requirement for the course in which they wish to enroll. In addition to math placement, the Science Department also considers a student’s performance in Middle School courses, especially science and math. We also consider student performance on standardized testing and her readiness for grappling with conceptual problems, independent problem-solving, and comfort with uncertainty.

How are placement decisions made about grade 10 grade chemistry?

Again, current math placement and performance is a factor. Additionally, the department will evaluate the student’s ability to handle independent problem-solving, level of initiation, resourcefulness, and ability to think abstractly.

Is there “tracking” in science?

There is NO TRACKING in science. If a student does not take an honors class freshman year, she can still take an honors or an Advanced class later on if she meets the course requirements and receives departmental permission. Placement in regular Chemistry or Chemistry Foundations can lead to success in advanced science classes!

Are chemistry and physics required to graduate?

The only science course that a Holton student must take is biology at some level. However, many colleges expect to see biology, chemistry and physics on a transcript for strong candidates. A student needs three science courses for graduation, but there are a number of options depending on her interest and aptitude. Students who wish to take Advanced Biology or Advanced Topics in Global Environmental Science must meet the chemistry prerequisite.

Will a student receive credit for taking a science course over the summer?

A summer course does not count toward the science credits required for graduation nor does the grade count towards a Holton GPA. Families should consult with their daughter’s current science teacher or class dean before enrolling in a summer science course. The science department has found that many students taking summer courses to “skip” ahead find gaps in their understanding and application of the material. It is unlikely that a summer course can cover a year’s worth of topics into five weeks!

If a student wishes to pursue laboratory research over the summer, will Holton help her to find a placement?

Students who apply for and are accepted into Holton’s Science Research program must take a semester course, either Molecular and Microbiology or Computer Programming and Robotics, during their junior year and then be placed into a local laboratory. The student, with the help of the mentor, will formulate a plan for conducting original scientific research. The bulk of the research will occur during the summer in an 8 week period.