Science The science requirement is the successful completion of three years of laboratory sciences. Advanced and regular section placement is determined by the department. The laboratory sequence includes Introductory Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics courses. Additional science electives also may be available to students in the 11th and 12th grades. Advanced sections, which explore topics in greater depth and breadth are offered to the most able science students. These students often take the appropriate SAT II examinations. Students are encouraged to take science courses every year in the Upper School. In addition to the specific course content, all the courses teach problem-solving skills through observation, comparison, organization, hypothesizing, experimentation, and generalization. Students are encouraged to explore beyond the textbook and classroom materials and to seek additional information through outside sources, such as periodicals in the sciences or the Internet. Lessons develop students’ skills in utilizing data, charts, graphs and tables using appropriate software such as Excel, Word and Logger Pro. Laptops, CBL’s and sensors are integrated where appropriate in the laboratory. Portledge is a member of the Curriculum Study Group of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center and takes advantage of its programs and resources. Introductory Physical Science: This course provides students with a broad foundation in laboratory techniques, scientific method, and inductive and deductive reasoning. IPS predicates the learning process on laboratory experiments and on the students’ analyses of their results. Using standard lab equipment, students develop techniques for: (1) measuring mass and volume and density using balances, graduated cylinders and metric rulers; (2) estimating;(3) investigating the separation of substances using various chemical and solubility properties; 4) identification of substances using flame-testing, electromagnetic spectrums and other characteristic properties. 5) electroplating and electricity. Biology: A survey/laboratory approach covering a wide variety of topics in the life sciences, this course emphasizes the relationship between structure and function and the interrelationships among organisms. Topics include cells and cell energetics, evolution and natural selection, taxonomy, development, physiology, maintenance and reproduction of plants and animals, ecology and genetics. Many students take the SAT Biology subject test. Chemistry: A study of matter and its structure, the course integrates descriptive chemistry, problem-solving techniques, and laboratory experiments. Course content includes SI metrics, structure of matter, mole concept and stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodic law, chemical bonding, kinetic theory, gas laws, energy changes, acid-base theory, oxidation-reduction, chemical equilibrium and nuclear chemistry and (as time permits) organic chemistry. Physics: This survey/laboratory course uses a traditional approach to the study of energy in our physical world. Topics covered are basic concepts of mechanics, heat, electricity, magnetism, light and sound, and an introduction to modern physics. Laboratory experiments are designed to help the student grasp the nature of the empirical truths of the physical world. The advanced track of physics employs a more sophisticated array of mathematical models and derivations to demonstrate interrelationships among various concepts in physics. Students may pursue an AP option in the subsequent year. Environmental Studies: The Science and Art of Sustainability analyzes the science and humanities of environmental science. The science focus includes classroom work, empirical studies, field work and laboratory work so that students understand the scientific data and context about the environment and sustainability. The humanities focus includes studies of the economic, ethical, political, social and historical implications of sustainability. The two elements are dovetailed so that the science portion helps inform the humanities element and vice versa. This course is an elective open to seniors and culminates in an independent study project investigating an environmental issue from both perspectives and including ideas for sustainability. The course also has a section that is taught on the AP level. Electives: These year-long courses are restricted to eleventh and twelfth grade students. Departmental approval is required. Advanced Placement: Exceptional students may elect to take the AP Biology exam after successful completion of the Biology A course. Chemistry AP elective is offered subsequent to successful completion of Chemistry A. This course is taught on the college level, following the prescribed guidelines of the AP program, and has as its primary goal the development of a deeper knowledge and understanding of Chemistry concepts. Additionally, the course is designed to allow students an opportunity to experience college level course and laboratory work. Physics AP elective is offered after Physics A. Research: Students who have a strong interest in the sciences may, subject to departmental approval, be permitted to do independent research as a science elective.