Science

Biology

Biology allows students to study life from the molecular all the way up to the ecological level. Class begins with a unit on evolution, giving students a conceptual framework to understand the origins of all the phenomena we go on to study. Other fall units include biochemistry and macromolecules, diffusion and osmosis, and energy and matter in living systems including photosynthesis and cellular respiration. In the spring, students study cell division, genetics, and ecology. Throughout the year, students continually put their learning in context to reflect on how it can give them a deeper understanding of the real world and their role in it.

Chemistry

The Chemistry class examines the world around us from a submicroscopic viewpoint. The course includes discussion of atomic and molecular structure, energy changes in chemical reactions, the chemistry of aqueous solutions, solids and gasses, chemical equilibria, acids and bases, nuclear chemistry, and a glimpse into organic chemistry and biochemistry. Laboratory work includes both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Conceptual Physics

This yearlong course will survey various topics in physics, emphasizing conceptual modeling and the development of strategic problem-solving skills. After a short boot camp unit on measurement and the scientific process, we begin our study of waves. These wiggles in spacetime are everywhere; from the everyday wonders, like water ripples and our experience of sound and light, to the profound and unknowable reverberations at the largest and smallest scales of our universe. Topics covered in Semester 2 have included force and motion, electromagnetism, and special topic exploration as time allows. Through the mastery of various subject areas, students will have the opportunity to meet our broader learning goals: to understand and apply fundamental laws of the universe to the experiences of daily life; to make connections between quantitative and descriptive representations of physical concepts; to experience scientific inquiry and interpret data; and to refine the ability to make sense of and communicate complex ideas.

Genetics

This semester-long lab-based science course will develop students’ knowledge of genetic variance, inheritance and the tools used to manipulate and analyze DNA. We’ll examine complex genetic disorders, analyze pedigrees, interpret sequence data, and practice hands-on skills used in modern molecular biology labs like pipetting, gel electrophoresis, and bacterial transformations. This is a great course for students interested in health sciences, biomedical research, or anyone curious about the molecular basis of life.

Advanced Physics

The study of physics began with natural philosophy, when ancient scholars made observations of the stars, shadows, and other earthly phenomena in an attempt to make sense of the universe and their place in it. Students are encouraged to adopt a similarly naive and curious approach to the wonders of the physical realm, building up an understanding from simple principles and systems that model reality, using these principles to make predictions on paper, testing our predictions in labs, and reasoning about the relative successes and failures of our model as an explanation.

This course will survey various topics in physics, many familiar from conceptual study, but approached using mathematical rigor developed throughout the high school curriculum. Subjects from past years have included linear and rotational motion, forces, torque, energy, momentum, fluid dynamics, waves, optics, acoustics, and special topics in modern physics.

Through the advanced study of physics, students will:

• build problem-solving skills through applied mathematics

• predict and explain the behavior of complex systems using fundamental physical principles

• refine their ability to question, make sense of and communicate complex scientific ideas

• describe unity between systems at different scales and between disciplines

• place the development of ideas and technologies along the historical timeline

• foster an appreciation of space, time, and the chaos of lived experiences through understanding, questioning, and wonder.

Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy and Physiology is an advanced elective focusing on relating the structure of organs to their functions and understanding the major mechanisms of bodily functions. The class provides students with the basic biochemistry, cell biology, histology, embryology and pathology of organs and organ systems of the body. Students use labs and hands on activities, including dissections of both fresh and preserved organs, to draw conclusions based on observation.  There is also regular opportunity to research and present on pathophysiology and other phenomena based on each student’s interest.  The class will cover basic biochemistry, cell biology, histology, integument, bones, muscle, nerves, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, digestive, excretory, endocrine, and reproductive systems.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science is a comprehensive course that aims to understand the intricate relationship between the natural systems of our planet and human activities. It examines the scientific principles that govern the functioning of natural phenomena and resource cycles, analyzes our exploitation of these systems, and explores potential solutions for the consequences of resource mismanagement. This course covers the interrelatedness of relevant current events by integrating life science, physical science, and social science. 

Students will engage in inquiry-based exercises, environmental health assessment techniques, and student-led presentations and projects. This course fosters an understanding of the causes, risks, consequences, and potential solutions for both natural and human-created environmental problems. It will equip students with the skills to analyze environmental case studies and engage in collaborative project work.

Personal Finance: Navigating Your Financial Future

This elective course empowers Maybeck students with essential financial literacy skills using the highly acclaimed Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF) curriculum. Students will explore practical topics such as budgeting, saving, understanding credit and debt, investing basics, and planning for college and future careers. Through interactive activities, real-world scenarios, and engaging discussions, students will develop the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions throughout their lives.