Ecology studies relationships and interconnections. In this course, students focus on the interdependence of living marine organisms (biotic factors) and their ocean environment (abiotic factors) and how energy flows through Earth’s systems and connects us to all living things. Topics interwoven throughout the course include: biodiversity, food webs, population biology, predation, competition, symbiosis, climate change, and human impacts while closely analyzing coral reefs, kelp forests, sharks, and whales. We use collaborative modeling, experimental design, current research, and field experiences to deepen our understanding of ecological concepts. Field trip experiences to places such as New England Aquarium and/or a Whale Watch help support our learning by exposing students to real-world marine research.Prerequisites: Chemistry Foundations and Biology Foundations.
Chemistry Foundations covers essential core content while providing hands-on opportunities for students to learn how to think like a chemist. Students learn to use the language of chemistry to describe physical and chemical changes in matter. They explore atomic structure and theory, ionic and covalent bonding, and the structure and organization of the Periodic Table in order to understand how atoms function both individually and when bonded together. In addition, students will examine the nature of chemical reactions in theory and in practice. Students investigate environmental chemistry and pollution while applying it to issues of injustice in the US through an independent research project. Students further develop skills around conducting labs, scientific research, synthesis in scientific writing, and creating formal scientific posters. Prerequisites: Physics Foundations and Physics Applications -Engineering (previously Conceptual Physics) or departmental permission. Honors section with departmental permission.