Science
Our objective in the science department is to give students a better understanding of, and a deeper appreciation for, the natural world. We are confident that the insight they gain from their study of science will contribute importantly to their lives: it will help them to assume productive and valued roles in our society; it will inform their decision-making and give them the confidence and skill to tackle the array of global problems related to science and technology; lastly, it will enhance their enjoyment of nature’s marvels and encourage them to pursue further those areas of science that most excite them. We train students to think critically and communicate lucidly about scientific topics, and we develop and assess their proficiency with the technological innovations that are most useful in science.
The study of physical sciences (physics and chemistry) acquaints students with the laws governing the inanimate universe and promotes quantitative scientific thinking and problem-solving skills. The study of biology introduces them to the principles that unify all life on our planet and gives them important perspective on the human species. Because we view both kinds of learning as critical for students at the secondary school level, we require that all students take a full year of a physical science and a full year of biology. These two years must include a full laboratory program, since only direct experience with measurements and analysis of results can make students fully aware of the difficulties, the limitations, and the excitement of doing scientific research.
Although only two years of science are required of our students, we strongly recommend that they study all three sciences—physics, chemistry and biology—in that order. This sequence puts the most fundamental courses first, so that later courses can build upon the earlier ones. Students who take only two sciences complete the physical science before biology, and students who enter Choate Rosemary Hall having already taken biology take physics before chemistry.
Introductory (first-year) courses are offered at regular and honors levels in physics, chemistry, and biology, and laboratory work is an integral part of all of these. Honors courses are designed for students with strong aptitude and interest, and only qualified students are placed in them by the department. Advanced courses are also offered in all three areas of science and in environmental science; these courses include both advanced-placement courses and a great number of one-term “elective” courses concerning more specific topics. For sixth formers who wish to pursue intensive course work in one area and then devote themselves to a project of their choosing, the Capstone Program is available to those who qualify. For students who wish to involve themselves in more serious, original scientific investigation, the Science Research Program provides a great opportunity; selected students study the scientific literature and familiarize themselves with laboratory or field techniques for three terms, do research off campus with research scientists for a summer, and then spend an additional term analyzing and writing about their results. Viewed as a whole, the courses and opportunities available in the science department enable students to design programs with the balance, rigor, and depth appropriate for their ability levels and their interests.
—Lawrence G. Stowe, department head