Environmental Research

All year                                                 6 Credits

(360) Honors

(362) College Prep

Open to Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Biology I, grade of B in College Prep Chemistry or C in Chemistry Honors, and consent of instructor

This course is designed to incorporate advanced chemical and biological techniques employed in current environmental research. This course uses an investigative and independent study approach to explore current environmental topics both nationally and locally. Students carry out research investigations dealing with water quality analysis along the Charles River, food quality, salt content of local wells and ponds, air pollution, energy use and other related environmental issues. Time is also devoted during the last quarter for more intensive research projects based on one or more of the techniques mastered earlier in the course.

Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:

·         demonstrate an understanding of basic chemical concepts

·         use scientific tools in carrying out experiments

·         sharpen their problem solving and critical thinking skills gain an understanding of the impact of chemistry in society