Science

Year - 6 credits

In this physics course, students explore and investigate the foundations of mechanics and the study of motion. Simple equations and conceptual modeling will be used to relate physical quantities and better understand linear and circular motion, projectiles, forces, momentum, and energy transformations.  Later, topics in electricity and magnetism further an understanding of waves (sound and light), heat, electric circuits and magnetism. Teaching methods include interactive lectures, discussions, demonstrations, laboratory experiments, and hands-on engineering design challenges. As WT’s foundational science course, the curriculum places a special emphasis on laboratory techniques, data analysis, and principles of experimental design. 

Year - 6 credits

Prerequisites: Physics or by Department Chair approval

This math- and physics-based chemistry course introduces concepts such as the structure and properties of atoms, molecules, and ions; chemical reactions; chemical bonding; molecular geometry and bonding theories; intermolecular forces, liquids, and solids; and properties of solutions. Teaching methods include interactive lectures, discussions, demonstrations, computer simulations, laboratory work, projects, and group work. A special emphasis will be placed on applying content to hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and the presentation of student findings in lab reports and class presentations. Students will be evaluated on their learning through frequent quizzes, laboratory reports, class presentations, short essays, and end-of-semester exams.

Year - 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors

Prerequisite: Chemistry

Biology is a laboratory-based course comprising three major units: cell structure and function, genetics, and evolution. We will begin with biochemistry as a way to build on prior chemistry knowledge and prepare to dive into cell structure and function.  After learning cell structure and function, we will hone in on the nucleus and learn about DNA and how information is transferred throughout the cell. We then examine the roles genes play in our everyday lives and how they make us who we are.  We will finish the year by studying evolution, first on a microscale and then on a macroscale. During these units, students will hone the scientific skills they began building in previous classes. Students will examine experimental design, analyze data, learn to use new tools such as micropipettes, and carry out experiments using molecular techniques such as DNA extraction and PCR and gel electrophoresis. Students participate in various active learning strategies, including diagramming biological processes, analyzing diagrams, questioning, and discussion. Students will be assessed through multiple methods, including frequent quizzes, cumulative tests, projects, inquiry-based labs, and written assignments.

Year – 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite/Corequisite: Chemistry/Biology

Recommended: Physical Computing and Robotics

The Altruistic Engineering and Design course offers students a distinct learning opportunity by emphasizing the application of research through integrated projects that utilize the engineering cycle for prototype development. In this course students apply our credo, "Think also of the comfort and the rights of others" by designing products and processes that can improve the lives of individuals and communities, both locally and globally.  In consultation with the course instructor, students will work in small groups on all projects, creating proposals and presenting both their successes and failures. This student-centered course is structured to highlight the creativity and design aspects associated with STEM concepts. There will be a heavy focus on CAD modeling and the use of technology for rapid prototyping. Students will be responsible for sharing their products with members of the broader scientific community through local symposia, print media, or other suitable modes of communication. Note: This course complements but does not complete the WT graduation requirement for lab science.

Year - 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite/Corequisite: Chemistry/Biology

In Psychology, we focus on the scientific investigation of basic psychological processes and the latest findings in brain science to gain a deeper understanding of cognition and how it develops over the lifespan. We begin by exploring psychology from a historical perspective, examining early ideas of thought and behavior from ancient civilizations up to the present. We compare and contrast dated and unscientific explanations of human thought and behavior with the research that supports what we understand about these processes today. We also discuss how psychological research has been performed in the past, including the advancement of experimental ethics and how psychologists meet specific ethical criteria today. After we gain an understanding of how psychology functions as a science, students will have the choice of topics to explore through an experimental lens. These can include how our emotions and motivations tie together our brain and body; the mechanism for translating sensory input into perceptual experience; brain structure and organization; how we learn and process new information, and how that information is stored in our brains to create memory; how our brains and thought processes develop from prenatal stage through advanced age; and/or how psychology informs us about our social interactions. Interwoven throughout the course will be an analysis of the major historical and current scientific theories that have emerged from behavioral research, cognitive modeling, and AI. Student-directed investigations of various topics will be a cornerstone of the evaluation in this course, with students taking an active role in teaching each other about specific studies and concepts throughout the year. This will be done through informal presentations on readings, research papers on chosen topics, and presentations highlighting how topics apply to their own experiences. A goal for the course is for students to better understand how brain functions tie into behavior and learning, and to present on a topic of specific interest at the STEM symposium in May. NOTE: This course complements but does not complete the WT graduation requirement for lab science. 

Year - 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors

Prerequisite: Chemistry

Inquiry in Qualitative and Quantitative Chemistry is an advanced laboratory course that builds on prior knowledge from chemistry. Students will apply their knowledge and skills to conduct laboratory experience to have them develop rigorous and high-level research techniques. Topics will include organic, analytical, structural, pharmaceutical, and forensic chemistry. Techniques students will learn include: synthesis, extraction, titration, spectroscopy, and chromatography. They will develop scientific communication skills through writing, presentations, and graphic design. Assessments will include lab reports, mock scientific journal and poster submissions, and tests. The class will culminate with students designing and conducting their own authentic research to present and defend at the STEM symposium. 

Inquiry in Qualitative and Quantitative Chemistry will, in future years, alternate with an upper-level physics course. 

Year – 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors

Prerequisite: Chemistry and Biology

Recommended: B or higher in both classes

Biotechnology is an advanced laboratory course designed for students who have completed foundational biology and chemistry courses. This course immerses students in rigorous research methodologies and cutting-edge laboratory techniques, including DNA cloning, plasmid mapping, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, cell culture, cell transformation, DNA sequencing, and Western Blotting. These skills will be applied to explore complex topics in biochemistry, molecular biology, and molecular evolution. In addition to technical proficiency, students will critically analyze the societal implications of biotechnological advances, debating topics such as gene editing ethics, the use of personal genetic information, and the role of animals in experimental research. By employing ethical frameworks, students will engage in meaningful discussions on how these technologies can and should shape modern society. The course emphasizes the development of scientific communication skills through writing, discussions, and presentations. Assessments include research papers, scientific writing, and oral presentations alongside traditional evaluations. The course culminates in an independent research project, where students will design, conduct, and present their findings at the STEM symposium. Exceptional projects may be submitted to the journal Sigma. This course prepares students for advanced studies and careers in biotechnology, research, and related STEM fields, fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and innovative problem-solving.

Year - 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors

Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry

Recommended: B or higher in both classes

This advanced course provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to critically approach the continually developing science of biology. The class will be divided into approximately four quarters, each with a major theme. The first quarter will focus on cell structure and function; the second quarter on cell growth and signaling; and the third quarter on the development and evolution of organisms. The final weeks of the course will allow students to specialize in different immunological, neurological, and organ systems. Throughout this course, we will use various diseases and disease processes to highlight the connection between basic cellular functions and their medical relevance in causing disease. Diseases discussed in class may include cystic fibrosis, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s, cholera, HIV, and COVID among others. This course differs significantly from the usual high school Biology course with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, and the time and effort required by the student. Laboratory technical skills, analysis and communication of scientific information, and problem-solving abilities will be an integral part of the course.  Students should expect a demanding workload including, but not limited to, daily textbook and article readings, homework, quizzes, lab activities and reports, tests, and projects.

Year - 6 credits

Open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisites: Calculus 1 or Calculus 2

This rigorous, calculus-based physics course introduces and prepares students for the challenges of college-level physics. Covering a broad range of topics, students will delve deeply into kinematics, forces, circular motion, energy, momentum, optics, thermodynamics, electrostatics, circuitry, and magnetism. The course combines direct instruction with hands-on, inquiry-based experiments and projects to foster both theoretical understanding and practical application of key physics concepts. Students will engage in collaborative investigations, problem-solving exercises, and the development of innovative projects to explore the real-world implications of physical principles. Assessments will include regular quizzes and tests to measure comprehension; detailed lab results and write-ups to evaluate experimental skills; and student-created projects and products to demonstrate the ability to apply physics concepts creatively and independently. Success in the class requires a strong understanding of algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. This course is ideal for students who seek a solid foundation in physics to prepare for advanced study in science, engineering, or related fields.