Science

Taking an atoms-first approach, we begin by analyzing the periodic table of the elements. We move from the early concept of atoms as indivisible particles to today’s quantum mechanical view. Then, equipped with knowledge about the electronic structure of atoms, we can study the ways in which they bond to form different types of compounds.

As we investigate chemical reactions and explore concepts of solubility, acid-base chemistry, and reduction-oxidation reactions, we also develop a quantitative understanding of chemical reactions. If, for example, I burn a hydrocarbon compound in air, how many grams of carbon dioxide and water can I expect to produce? How much heat? What volume will the carbon dioxide occupy? We also work to explain the physical properties of matter. Why is it, for example, that hydrocarbons are not miscible with water and that carbon dioxide is a gas at room temperature while water is a liquid? If you need more background in math you may opt to take Chemistry 1, which offers a similar curriculum to that of Chemistry 1 Advanced, but our pace is somewhat slower and we take more class time to work on solving problems.

An element from one side of the periodic table—say sodium, a reactive metal—could combine with one from the other—say chlorine, a toxic gas—and voilà: salt! Everywhere I looked, chemistry told a hidden past, present, even a future, tying this tiny world to the one before my eyes.

We begin our study of physics with a dive into mechanics; everything from the beginning ideas of displacement and acceleration to momentum and orbits. From these fundamentals of classical mechanics, we expand into topics central for understanding the everyday functioning of the world around us, including electrical circuits, the imaging capabilities of lenses and the counterintuitive  world of fluid mechanics. As we arrive at each topic we think about how physicists arrived at these discoveries, tackle problems both individually and in a group setting, and expand our understanding of the world. This is an algebra-based introductory course that will give you a launching pad for future physics study.

My first year in class I was in awe of how physics could explain the things I saw every day. Throwing objects became lessons about projectile motion; bumping into a friend while skating, an elastic collision. The way the equations build up to a complex and realistic description of the world amazed me.

This is an algebra-based course that introduces two main branches of physics: classical mechanics and electromagnetism. In the first semester, we will trace the historical development of Newton’s laws of motion in order to study the trajectories of objects under the influence of forces. We will encounter the concepts behind energy, momentum, and angular momentum, using them to explain everyday phenomena. In the second semester, we explore the broad utility of these concepts as applied to fluid mechanics, circuits, electric and magnetic fields, and optics. Students will have the option of taking the AP Physics 1 exam.

APE

In this calculus-based course, we will formulate the laws of
classical mechanics as Newton did in the seventeenth century. Eventually displaced by Einstein’s relativity, Newton’s laws hold to remarkable precision and serve as an excellent introduction to the study of motion. Topics include the description of motion, forces and dynamics (Newton’s laws), momentum, work and energy, rotational dynamics, gravitation and orbits, and vibrational motion. Students are well prepared for the AP Physics C: Mechanics exam.

Physics at Commonwealth is taught with the goal that as students, we figure out some answers on our own. Teachers give you the concepts and have you make connections. I think that’s the reason we come to care so much about the why and the how of the material.

Astronomy tackles some of the most fundamental questions ever asked: how old is the universe? Is there life elsewhere? What exactly is a black hole? This course aims to provide students with the tools to understand modern research on these, and related, questions. Beginning with an extensive historical introduction, we will subsequently tour our own Solar system, explore planets around other stars, understand black holes, examine galaxies, and eventually reach the origin of the universe itself. Emphasis will be placed upon conceptual understanding and empirical techniques. Students will explore their own independent projects, allowing them to dive deeper into topics of particular interest. Prerequisites: Algebra 2/Precalculus and Chemistry 1.

Our goal in Biology 2 is to use the knowledge you gained in Chemistry to develop a deeper understanding of biological systems. Each unit will be centered around key publications in the scientific literature, both classic and current. We will work together to dissect complex data and gain familiarity with experimental design and modern research techniques. We start the year with two fundamental principles: evolution and the central dogma. We will then delve deeper into the intricate mechanisms that regulate gene expression and the cell cycle during tissue regeneration. Other topics will review macromolecular structure, metabolic pathways, genetics, cell signaling and ecology. A weekly lab will allow students to pose their own questions and develop experiments to reveal fundamental principles in biology.

Now that I’ve taken Bio 2, I will always ask ‘Why?’ For example, why is the fruit fly attracted to the fermenting yeast and not to the fruit itself? My growing knowledge of biology helps me to understand the world better.

AP 

Building on knowledge and skills from Chemistry 1 Advanced, we develop a more nuanced and detailed picture of the chemical world around us. Our study of kinetics allows us to connect our macroscopic observations about the rates of reactions to the underlying chemical mechanisms for the reactions. We begin to see both quantitatively and qualitatively the dynamic chemical
equilibria at play in all biological and chemical systems (particularly acid-base and solubility equilibria), how they can be shifted, and how this balance connects to the fundamental thermodynamic relationships between reactants and products. We study how the enthalpic and entropic components of a reaction determine the spontaneity of a reaction. As we explore these fundamental concepts, we simultaneously develop our knowledge of electrochemical reactions, the chemistry of the main-group elements, transition-metal chemistry, and organic chemistry. Laboratory work constitutes an integral component of the course and focuses on quantitative analysis using micro- and macroscale techniques.

Note: Chemistry 1 and 2 Advanced together constitute a first-year college course in general chemistry for science majors. Almost all students take the Chemistry AP exam at the end of the year.

As I learned the science, I began to see what chemistry really meant. The periodic table was a key, a guide to that world—and chemistry brought it to life. The food on my plate, the placemat itself, indeed the air and everything around me were made of these molecules—and chemistry explained them.

Classically, physics studies the motion and dynamics of particles, of tangible objects. Nevertheless, wave phenomena are universal and govern behavior in fluids, optics, quantum physics, and biological systems. This course serves as an introduction to wave physics, with emphasis on optical and quantum systems.

We will begin by investigating fundamental wave phenomena: superposition, interference and diffraction, energy transport, and material response. Then, we will explore more advanced topics, such as pattern formation, instabilities, and turbulence. With this background, we can address open research questions and study recent engineering innovations.

APE

Nineteenth-century investigations into electricity and magnetism culminated in the unified theory of “Electromagnetism”, described by Maxwell’s four equations. We will study Maxwell’s equations in detail using vector calculus, covering topics such as electrostatics, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, electromagnetic waves, AC and DC circuits. Our reward will be to see that Maxwell’s equations are fundamentally incompatible with Newton’s Laws. The year culminates with Einstein’s special theory of relativity, which, in 1905, “fixed” classical physics, ushering in the era of modern physics. All necessary multivariable calculus will be taught in class.

The measured and analytical approach appeals to me. Given four formulas in physics (my current science and hence my current favorite) and a creative bent, one can derive tens more and solve many types of problems. Facing a problem for which, through experimentation and creative implementations of formulas I’ve derived, an answer can be reached—no matter the difficulty—excites me.

Wiggle your finger. Now take a moment to think about all the steps and all the components involved in even something that simple: the command in your brain (or the reflex that bypasses it!); the nerve cells that carry and relay signals down your arm; the cells that insulate those nerves so the signal moves faster; the chemical spark from nerve to muscle; the molecular ratcheting that makes muscles contract and release. Each part is built for its job, shaped and structured in order to serve its purpose.

Our whole body is built of these sorts of remarkable assemblies of cells, with structure rigorously tied to function. How do the forms of biological structures lead to their functions— and vice versa? These are the kinds of relationships we explore in cells, tissues, organs, and systems.

Although we mostly consider human anatomy and physiology, there are times when other animals provide interesting examples, and so we digress once in a while. Along the way, you will see how these systems allow animals to carry out an impressive assortment of actions— from climbing stairs, to digesting a meal, to contemplating calculus.

Biology is really a very humbling science. Never again will I be able to see a living thing without thinking about its inner workings.

What gives rise to color at an atomic scale? How do the form and finish of an object alter our perception of it? What happens to clay when it goes into the kiln? What is clay? What is happening when we make a photograph? How does the atomic-level structure and reactivity of an adhesive give rise to its properties? Art and science
may be related, but there are fundamental differences about how information is gathered and presented. Pablo Picasso once said, "We all know that Art is not truth. Art is a lie that makes us realize truth, at least the truth that is given us to understand. The artist must know the manner whereby to convince others of the truthfulness of his lies." In contrast, Richard Feynman asserts, "The principle of science, the definition, almost, is the following: The test of all knowledge is experiment. Experiment is the sole judge of scientific 'truth.'" This interdisciplinary class will explore how closely related the artistic and scientific processes are, and the power they have to catalyze one another. Themes such as color, perception, and empiricism will guide our study of materials and methods throughout the year. Each unit will focus on a particular set of materials and techniques, which could include clay, glaze, plaster, polymers, cement, pigments, electroplating, and crystal growing. We will apply the scientific method rigorously to develop, refine, and optimize artistic techniques, and we will create art. This class will push your aesthetic sense and challenge your analytical thinking. Note: Students must be concurrently enrolled in The Art of Materials.