Group 4: Experimental Sciences
Through studying any of the Group 4 subjects, students shall become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the Scientific Method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a particular approach through experimental work that distinguishes the Group 4 subjects from other disciplines, and characterizes each of the Group 4 courses.
Biology SL/HL
Biology includes the exploration and investigation of such topics as cells, evolution, ecology and conservation, genetics, human health and physiology. Throughout the course, students will demonstrate an understanding of scientific terminology, facts and concepts; scientific methods and techniques; and methods of presenting scientific information. They will also apply their understanding in order to communicate effectively and present scientific information, as well as construct, analyze, and evaluate hypotheses, research questions and predictions, scientific methods and techniques, and scientific explanations. Students will also demonstrate the personal skills of cooperation, perseverance, and responsibility appropriate for effective scientific investigation and problem solving. They will also demonstrate manipulative skills necessary to carry our scientific investigations with precision and safety.
Chemistry SL/HL
Chemistry as a core science is primarily interested in furthering the students’ understanding of how science is conducted and how the world works. With this in mind, the course will provide opportunities for students to look at the fundamental concepts of atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and organic chemistry. Through the development of content knowledge and investigative skills, students will be able to engage in real-world simulations and address problems seen through various contexts. Through formative discussions and presentations, communication skills will be honed, collaborative thinking encouraged, and the frequent use of inquiry will help to address some of the more challenging problems.
Physics SL/HL
Physics is the application of mathematics to the physical world. Observing and keeping track of what happens is made much simpler when a thorough understanding of how math and physics are intrinsically linked; this course is designed to do just that. By looking at mechanics, thermal physics, harmonic motion, electric currents, fields, nuclear physics, and energy, students will be given the opportunity to relate how the world can be explained and why it works as we observe it. Also, as physics is a fundamental science, it will be build upon the backdrop of experimentation within the classroom, so students can explore the different phenomena we encounter firsthand.
The design portion of the class will be emphasized greatly, looking at how the theoretical science we discuss can translate into an achievable and data-producing experiment. As this is the backbone of Physics, it is necessary that students understand the interplay between theory and results. With this, the economic and ethical implications of different experimentation will need to be discussed and should be welcome within the classroom.
The instruction of Physics will incorporate both global and local perspectives on issues surrounding types of research and as stated above the ethical, economic, and even environmental implications of various types of research being conducted in the world today.