Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy & Physiology, Science
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY BLOCK, 9TH GRADE
In the 9th grade Organic Chemistry block, we study the chemistry of living organisms: photosynthesis,
chlorophyll, sugars and other carbohydrates, fermentation, alcohols, organic acids, esters, and essential
oils. We also explore combustion, oxidation and reduction, common gases, the composition of air, classes
of organic chemicals, and how organic reactions occur. Finally, we will examine some of the technology
associated with organic substances, including guncotton, celluloid, petroleum refining, and polymers.
CHEMISTRY BLOCK: CHEMISTRY OF ACIDS, BASES, AND SALTS, 10TH GRADE
In the 10th grade Chemistry block, we study the chemistry of acids, bases, and salts: what are acids and
bases, where are they commonly found in the human body, acid/base indicators, electrolysis of water,
generation of acids and bases, neutralization, Arrhenius’ theory of electrolytes, formula weights, moles
and concentration, writing chemical formulas and naming chemical compounds, writing and balancing
chemical equations, the pH scale and the definition of pH, salts as the result of acid and base,
decomposing a salt to acid and base, crystallization and crystal forms, common salt substances, acidic
and basic salts (hydrolysis), buffers, amphoterism, and oscillating reactions.
CHEMISTRY BLOCK: MODERN ATOMIC CHEMISTRY AND THE PERIODIC TABLE, 11TH GRADE
The 11th grade Chemistry block focuses on the modern atomic theory and the periodic table of elements.
The students will be introduced to quantum theory, the Bohr-Rutherford model of the atom with its central
nucleus surrounded by shells of electrons, the electron cloud model (Schrödinger), the superstring theory,
and radioactivity. This block will be approached historically through the work of Dalton, Thomson,
Rutherford, Bohr, Schroedinger, and the Curies. Students will also be introduced to an alternative
approach to matter through the work of Goethe.
BIOCHEMISTRY BLOCK, 12TH GRADE
In the 12th grade Biochemistry block, we study how the nature of life is reflected in the chemical
processes in living organisms. We start with the study of the four main biochemical substances, namely,
carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, including their structure, properties, and interactions
with enzymes. We research the special character of biochemical molecules and reactions within living
organisms, the structures in the cell in relation to biochemical reactions and the processes involving DNA
and RNA in protein synthesis. Finally, we discuss the implications of biochemistry regarding the nature of
life.
PHYSICS BLOCK: THERMODYNAMICS, 9TH GRADE
This main lesson block involves the observation of phenomena in the realm of heat, cold, and change of
phase. This includes basic work in measurement and observation skills. Topics will progress toward
understanding basic thermal processes and applying them to practical applications, including the internal
combustion engine and residential passive solar heating. Some of the experiments that will be performed
in the class include “Pascal’s Tubes”, “Can Crush”, “Hydraulic Jack”, “Convection of a Gas Apparatus”,
“Fire Piston”, “Stirling Engine”, and “The Rising Solar Bag”.
PHYSICS BLOCK: MECHANICS, 10TH GRADE
The 10th grade Physics block is an experience-based exploration of classical mechanics, including
practical examples of statics and dynamics. In statics we explore equilibrium, force, torque, friction, and
inertia. In the historical context of the dawn of the new age of physics, experiments of Galileo and Newton
are repeated using gravity as the accelerating force. Timed drops of objects of different weights, and
timing balls rolling down an inclined plane, are used to derive the constant for the acceleration of gravity.
The course concludes by applying all of what has been learned to launching air-powered rockets on the
athletic field, studying the effects of launch velocities and angles, and comparing measured and
calculated data. In addition to the experiments, students will build an original balloon-powered car, and we
will have a car race in the classroom.
PHYSICS BLOCK: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM, 11TH GRADE
The 11th grade Physics block is an experience-based exploration of the basic nature of electrical and
magnetic phenomena. Each student will begin exploring ideas for a modern original invention based on
principles of electricity and magnetism. Study will start with electrical charge experiments, including an
operating Van de Graaff generator. Simple magnetic experiments will be taken up next, as we will work
toward more complicated systems of magnetic fields. The basic experiments will be followed by exploring
the relationship of electrical and magnetic fields, enabling applications that include such devices as
batteries, electrical and electronic circuits (wire and test), robotics, electric motors, generators and
distribution systems, and the components of a personal computer. Students will be introduced to
nanotechnology, a cutting-edge field of science. They will perform the synthesis of a ferrofluid.
PHYSICS BLOCK: OPTICS, 12TH GRADE
This 12th grade Physics block begins with experiences that will allow a thorough investigation of physical
and conceptual elements, starting with a structured visit to observe Heartwood Pond. We will develop an
understanding of human vision through directly-experienced phenomena, and will thus make the
distinction between the role of intention, observation, and forming concepts. Experiments will explore the
phenomena of reflected and refracted images, as well as their underlying mathematical relationships
(Snell's Law, simple prisms, and simple lenses). Additional experiments will explore the changing
perception of color under various atmospheric conditions. Measurements are made using spectrometers,
lasers, diffraction gratings, and CDs and DVDs. Effects generated by man-made processes will also be
discussed.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY BLOCK, 9TH GRADE
Since every human being is more than just his/her body, we will address the physical body in the context
of the human experience. Specifically, we will address the body as a whole and will explore homeostasis
and the conditions for health and wellness. We will focus on five different aspects of the body: the skeletal
system, the cardiovascular system, the digestive system, the endocrine system, and the reproductive
system of men and women, working toward an understanding of function as related to form.
PRACTICAL ARTS: COMPUTER SCIENCE APPLICATIONS
This is a computer survey course in which students explore online typing courses, Word, Power Point,
Excel, Web Page Design, and 3-D Graphics design programs, such as Google Sketch, Skype, and
various Freeware programs.
SCIENCE ELECTIVE: FORMING CONCEPTS IN CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
This course is designed for those students who plan to study Science or Engineering in College and for
all students who want to gain a firm understanding of the fundamental concepts of chemistry and physics.
In this half semester science elective, we will explore key concepts in modern chemistry and physics.
Although we will not be limited to the use of this book, most of our study will be based on ”Physics For the
Rest of Us” by Roger S. Jones. Additional or in-depth information will be provided if the students wish to
pursue a topic in greater detail. We will trace the profound ways in which ideas, such as Einstein’s special
theory of relativity and quantum theory, and the structure of the atomic nucleus, have affected our
spiritual, psychological, ethical, and aesthetic realms.
SCIENCE ELECTIVE: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
This is an interdisciplinary course that emphasizes the impact of humans on the environment. The course
begins with a study of the structure and function of ecosystems. Various environmental problems will be
examined, including population growth, food supply, energy issues, water issues, air pollution, extinction,
solid waste disposal, and hazardous materials. Students explore how culture and technology affect
environmental policies. The elective includes several group activities and projects that require value
judgments and decision-making about environmental issues.
SCIENCE ELECTIVE: ASTRONOMY
This course is an introduction to astronomy and the study of the Universe. We study the history of
astronomy, gravity and motion, planets, stars, galaxies, and the structure of the universe. This course
places an emphasis on how astronomers gather information about distant objects without leaving the
Earth. The course begins with an introduction to the age of the Universe and theories that describes its
birth, speed of light, planetary configurations, eclipses, Earth’s shape and size, history of space
exploration, star maps, motions of the celestial bodies and systems in the sky, and classical astronomy. In
the second part of the course, we focus on the Solar System and the space beyond: the Earth and the
Moon, Inner and Outer Planets, Asteroids, Meteors and Comets, the Sun, star properties, stellar life
cycles, the Milky Way and other galaxies, and cosmology. We use sky atlases and audio and video media
as class resources. Students are required to follow recent astronomical and space exploration discoveries
in the news and present the subjects in class. At the end of the course, students draw a stellar map of the
Chapel Hill sky to be used for personal sky observations.
SCIENCE ELECTIVE: ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
This course explores the exciting and growing field of alternative energies and green technologies.
Students learn why alternative energy is growing more important to us as a country and as a global
society. Students investigate all the major areas of alternative energies, including energy and electrical
theory, solar energy, biomass, biofuels, heating and cooling systems, hydropower, wind power, wave
power, geothermal energy, nuclear power, and hydrogen and fuel cells. We tour the EWS campus and
make assessments about the impact of alternative energy on our campus in terms of sustainability and
cost savings. Students are assigned numerous theoretical and practical research projects. One research
project entails finding a route from Raleigh, NC, to San Francisco, CA, for an electric vehicle that will use
existing charging stations.