Courses

S-100 Physics

Year 1 unit
This is a laboratory science course that includes traditional topics such as forces, kinematics, energy, and basic concepts of electricity and magnetism, as well as less familiar areas such as indirect measurement of the very small. These topics are intended to increase each student’s understanding and awareness of events and the behavior of objects in her world. Through collaborative experiences and the use of technology, students explore various avenues for problem solving based on their mathematical background. The course also introduces students to many of the basic skills necessary for future science courses. Assignments and assessments include out-of-class reading, problem sets, laboratory reports, quizzes, tests, projects, and practical exercises.
Open to: 9

S-200 Chemistry

Year 1 unit

This is an introductory course in general chemistry. Students study basic and advanced concepts including chemical formulas, equations, chemical quantities, properties of gases, states of matter, atomic structure, bonding, and solutions. The ability to solve and discuss problems, both individually and in groups, is emphasized. Evaluations include projects, laboratory reports, tests, and quizzes.

Prerequisite: Physics (S-100)

Open to: 10/11/12

S-210 Principles of Chemistry

Year 1 unit

Principles of Chemistry is the study of the substances making up our environment and the changes these substances undergo. Through laboratory investigations and discoveries of chemical concepts, students gain a basic understanding of chemistry as well as the ability to interpret scientific processes. Students study topics that include solubility, periodic properties, chemical equations, phases of matter, and molecular structures. Evaluations include projects, tests, lab reports. This course is specifically designed for students who have experienced difficulty in mathematics.

Prerequisite: Physics (S-100) and recommendation of the department

Open to: 10/11/12

S-224 Arduino - Making stuff that thinks and moves

Fall .5 unit

Do you want to learn what makes things tick through practical experience (i.e., ripping things apart)? Do you want to learn about computers and programming and the beginnings of coding? Do you want to take up a new hobby or learn to put things together with solder? Arduino will teach you how.

This is an ideal course for those who are interested in building and coding working devices. We will use hardware (in some cases scavenged, in some cases purchased), software, and tools to build cool stuff that does things, such as digital thermometers, sound generators, and running robots. Each student is provided with a micro controller, software, and supplies to build working prototypes and learn about the basics of electronics and programming. Individually, each student is also expected to deliver several projects during the course of the semester. Check EmmaNow for a few videos showing projects that last year's students created. No previous computer science experience is necessary.

Open to: 9/10/11/12

S-256 STEM@Emma

Year .25 credit

STEM@Emma is a campus-based science research program for Emma Willard 9th and 10th grade students who are interested in independent science/math/technology research projects. A participant in STEM@Emma will work with an Emma science-faculty member on a project that is designed to lead to open-ended questions that can be pursued by the student using a variety of research tools. These projects will often extend beyond a single semester or school year, and may be transferred to other students in future semesters. Grading system: Credit/No Credit.

Prerequisite: Application and recommendation by department.

Open to: 9/10

S-310 Biology: Concepts and Connections

Year 1 unit
This course explores the breadth and complexity of the biological world. Common themes such as energy transfer and the link between structure and function are examined as students develop a conceptual understanding of human anatomy and physiology, genetics, evolution, ecology, cell biology, and the diversity of life. Students integrate theory and application through class discussions, hands-on projects, and numerous smaller laboratory activities. Assessments include tests, quizzes, labs, and projects. Students should be prepared to spend time outside of class developing their reading comprehension skills. This course draws upon the interdisciplinary ideas developed in physics and chemistry to explain biological themes.
Prerequisite: Physics (S-100)
Open to: 11/12

S-320 Biology: Research and Investigations

Year 1 unit
This course investigates the five cornerstones of biology through discussions, scientific experimentation and data analysis. Students focus their attention on human anatomy and physiology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and cellular biology. While participating in student-led discussions, designing experimental procedures, and completing interdisciplinary projects. Assessments address writing and analytical skills, as well as oral discussion and presentation skills; the course includes several significant research projects, tests, and oral presentations. Students should be prepared to spend time outside of class developing and maintaining their research efforts. This course draws upon the interdisciplinary skills developed in physics, chemistry and mathematics to further understand the scientific process in biology.
Prerequisite: Physics (S-100)
Open to: 11/12

S-400 Physics II

Year 1 unit

This course acquaints students with advanced physical concepts and their applications. In this course, students develop quantitative reasoning skills, including writing and solving mathematical expressions for physical phenomena, creating and interpreting graphs, designing and carrying out experiments, and manipulating and creating symbolic equations. During the year, students explore the basics of electricity, light, motion, forces, and energy. Students are assessed via a combination of tests, quizzes, labs and projects. Student proficiency in both algebra and basic trigonometry is necessary.

Prerequisite: Algebra II and Trig (M-325)

Open to: 11/12

S-410 Neuroscience

Year 1 unit
What does it mean to be “split-brained?” Is Sign Language truly a “language?” What happens in your brain when a memory is made? Through an in-depth examination of the brain from both a biological and a psychological perspective, students continue to develop their conceptual and analytic thinking skills. Areas of study include brain anatomy and development, language, memory, and nervous system disorders such as autism, Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. Coursework includes an assortment of scientific readings including magazine and newspaper articles and non-fiction books, complemented by in-class discussions. Evaluation is based on engagement in class, oral presentations, papers, and tests.
Prerequisite: Biology (S-310 or S-320) or concurrently enrolled in S-310 or S-320
Open to: 11/12

S-411 Global Climate Change

Fall .5 unit

It is only within the last ten years that scientists who study the Earth’s climate for a living have reached consensus about the temperature trend of the Earth (it is increasing) and the explanation for the trend (humans have put a large amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, trapping heat that would otherwise radiate away from the Earth). In this course, we examine the evidence that climate scientists rely on to understand and explain the ways in which the Earth’s climate is presently changing. We also pay close attention to climate related events in the news, as well as watching videos that show scientists at work in various locations around the globe. Finally, we focus on strategies for living on a new, warmer Earth. For instance, as sea level rises, how will different countries deal with the inevitable need for large numbers of people to migrate inland? Many of the classes are led by students, who choose topics to present and discuss. Evaluation is based on student participation in class, regular writing assignments, and the quality of student–led discussions.

Open to: 10/11/12

S-430 Astrobiology

Fall .5 unit

Until fairly recently, the term “planet” referred to any of the eight (or nine) spherical objects orbiting the star that we refer to as the sun. But today, astronomers are discovering planets orbiting other stars and they are achieving these discoveries on an almost weekly basis. This leads to the question, “Do any of these planets have life?” In this astronomy course, we examine how scientists attempt to find places that are hospitable to life. We focus on the current research being done and learn how astronomers are able to judge which far away planets outside of our solar system are likely to support life. Finally, we look at how to search for intelligent life outside of Earth and examine possible methods of communicating with distant life forms.

Open to: 10/11/12

S-440 Forensic Science

Spring .5 unit
Do you enjoy watching “CSI?” Are you curious about the biology and chemistry used to solve crimes? This course puts students in the middle of a crime scene and asks them to use specific lab techniques to come up with a solution. Students are responsible for presenting topics such as fingerprinting, hair/fiber analysis, impressions, blood, toxicology, and DNA. In addition to laboratory procedures, coursework includes research of famous crimes and discussions of an assortment of readings, fiction and nonfiction, pertaining to forensic science. Evaluation is based on engagement in class discussion, independent projects, papers, labs, and tests.
Prerequisite: Chemistry (S-200) and Biology (S-310 or S-320) or concurrently enrolled in S-310 or S-320
Open to: 11/12

S-446 Ethics in Science

Fall .5 unit

Ethics in Science focuses on the moral and ethical issues raised by modern science. The course is designed to address current issues in the scientific community such as genetic engineering, genetic testing, reproductive technology, euthanasia, organ donation, and the use of animals in medical testing/research. The course is designed around student-led discussions. Weekly reading involves recent articles from newspapers, magazines, and science journals. Assessment is based primarily on class presentations and involvement in class discussion.

Prerequisite: Biology (S-310 or S-320) or concurrently enrolled in S-310 or S-320

Open to: 11/12

S-456 STEM Internship Program: Research in Science

Year .5 unit

Select students may join the year-long science internship program. Students must attend an interest meeting in the spring and complete the application process. Accepted interns need to reserve a three-hour block of time in their weekly schedule for the entire year and enroll in Research in Science. Internships are run jointly with the practicum program (see course descriptions). Transportation costs are subsidized by the science internship program.

Internships are intended for advanced study and hands-on experience. Interns have the opportunity to develop their projects fully, learning more about a scientific discipline and the scientific process. Interns have the opportunity to travel to scientific meetings in some years.

Research in Science is a course designed for individual science interns. Students work directly with program directors as they progress through their year, reflecting on their personal experiences, sharing work with fellow interns, exploring scientific literature related to their work, and preparing a culminating presentation. Students work weekly online and meet monthly in person. Grading system: Credit/No Credit.

Prerequisite: Chemistry (S-200 or S-210) and Biology (S-310 or S-320) or concurrently enrolled in S-310 or S-320

Open to: 11/12

S-470 Environmental Studies

Spring .5 unit

While considering environmental topics such as climate change, water, energy and agriculture, this class also considers broader questions: What is the nature of scientific inquiry and what constitutes credible scientific evidence? How do average citizens of a democratic society pursue realistic and practical solutions to scientifically demonstrated concerns in the contexts of economics, politics, ethics, and idealism?

Evaluation in this class includes class reading and discussions, written reports and oral presentations, and appropriate hands-on science activities. Students gain experience reading and working with scientific research papers. There is a final project for the class to present a set of recommendations for scientific, technological, and/or policy changes that could, in practice, create large-scale positive changes.
Open to: 10/11/12

S-490 Introduction to Engineering

Spring .5 unit

Do you ever take apart machines to figure out how they work? Do you ever wonder how bridges and buildings stand up? This course helps you answer your engineering questions by providing a hands-on exploration of the structural, mechanical and computer engineering fields. Students explore how engineers apply math and physics concepts in the design process. Students practice spatial thinking and drafting in three dimensions when they design, build, and test structural and mechanical models. Finally, students learn basic computer science skills, using logic and simple coding to solve engineering problems. Students are asked to demonstrate their knowledge in engineering through hands-on design and testing labs, problem sets, and presentations.

Prerequisite: Algebra I (M-125)

Open to: 10/11/12

S-500 Advanced Placement Biology

Year 1.5 unit
This is a college-level course that examines the principles of ecology, cellular life, inheritance, evolution, diversity, and organismal structure and function. Laboratory exploration in each of these topics provides the student with the opportunity to collect and analyze data, think critically, and solve problems. Given the range of topics and the depth of coverage, students are required to complete work during school vacations and over the summer months. Reading and written assignments prepare students for the required AP Biology exam in May.
Prerequisites: Chemistry (S-200) and Biology (S-310 or S-320) and permission of the department
Open to: 11/12

S-510 Advanced Placement Chemistry

Year 1.5 unit
This college-level course is designed for students who wish to develop their skills in inorganic chemistry. Emphasis is placed on exploring advanced chemical systems through experimental design, data collection and analysis, and problem solving. Reading and collaborative work outside of class provide opportunities to practice and apply concepts, and these exercises may be assigned over the summer months and during school vacations. Proficiency in algebra is essential. Weekly problem sets and written work are assigned to prepare for the required AP Chemistry exam.
Prerequisites: Chemistry (S-200), Algebra II & Trigonometry (M-325) and permission of the department
Open to: 11/12

S-523 Advanced Placement Physics B

Year 1.5 units

AP Physics provides students with the skills and insights needed to explain the natural world. Students are introduced to the five major topics they would meet in a rigorous introductory college course: Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics and thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. As part of their preparation for the AP Exam, student complete regular problem sets and take tests based on the AP exam. The course also includes a hands-on laboratory component comparable to introductory college-level physics laboratories. Students will be well-prepared to take the AP Physics B Exam in May.

Prerequisites: Algebra II and Trig (M-325). Permission of the department is required. One prior year of physics is encouraged.

Open to: 10/11/12

Emma Willard School

Programs

Event Details

Spring semester ends for underclasswomen

Location:

Event Details

Faculty Meeting, Maguire

Location:

Event Details

Reading Day

Location:

Ask a parent

Thank you for submitting your question.

Please wait while we load your events