Science

List of 3 items.

  • Math Enrichment Tools for 9th Grade Physics – IN-PERSON FORMAT

    Students entering Physics 9
    June 13 – 17 (1 week)
    9:00-10:30 am
    $180

    Physics explores and models the properties of the universe around us through the language of mathematics. In this introductory class, we explore the fundamentals of mathematics vital to modeling in the physics classroom. Topics include interpreting direct and indirect relationships between variables, solving algebraic equations, and modeling real-life phenomenon with algebra. Students who wish to refine their algebraic skills prior to the start of Physics 9 will benefit from this week-long class.

  • Biology (Full Credit) – IN-PERSON FORMAT

    Students entering Grades 11 and 12
    Prerequisite course: Chemistry or Honors Chemistry
    June 13 – July 22 (6 weeks)
    8:30 am-12:30 pm
    $1,780
     
    Biology is the study of life. In this accelerated summer course, students will engage in an introductory biology study including the topics of evolution, the climate’s impact on living things, anatomy and physiology, modern genetics, molecular biology, and ecology. Through experiences in the laboratory and classroom discussion, students will build conceptual knowledge in the topics of biology as well as scientific inquiry skills. In order to maintain the accelerated pace, students should expect 60-90 minutes of homework per class day, which will include readings, question sets, reflections on lab work and online tutorials. The prerequisite for this course is successful completion of chemistry. This course fulfills the Hawken biology graduation requirement and would serve as good preparation for students who have not had a previous biology course and are planning to take AP Biology in the fall. This course can accommodate a remote student if needed, and the student can comply with our remote technology.

  • Chemistry Honors (Full Credit) – IN-PERSON FORMAT

    Prerequisite: Grade of A- or higher in Physics 9 (or other 9th grade science class if new to Hawken) and departmental approval
    June 13 – July 22 (6 weeks)
    8:30 am-12:30 pm
    $1,780
     
    The summer version of Honors Chemistry provides a fast-paced, in-depth and integrated study of introductory concepts that will earn students a full-year science credit. Students are challenged to reason about chemical phenomena from both conceptual and quantitative perspectives. As their fund of chemical knowledge grows through the course, students will be challenged to deal with problems that draw on multiple areas of chemistry. The laboratory component of the course provides students the opportunity to experience chemical phenomena first-hand, apply their problem-solving skills and extend their knowledge. Some of these labs will be done at home with a kit of safe, household chemicals, some will be online simulations, and some will be based on video captures of lab activities.  Successful candidates for this class are intrinsically motivated, self-directed learners who enjoy a challenging, fast-paced approach to science, and will have earned at least an A- in Physics 9 (or another freshman science class if new to Hawken) and at least an A- in Algebra 1. Hawken students must have permission from the Science Department Chair prior to taking this course for academic credit. If there is a question about placement, the student’s 9th grade science teacher will be consulted. Non-Hawken students need to check with their school to determine if the class will be accepted for credit. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be well prepared for the SAT II in chemistry, as well as future AP-level classes in science.