Teaching Biology
Biology is the study of living organisms. It is taught in
different stages throughout elementary, middle and high school, with many
different focuses. Introductory biology is often a exploration of anatomy,
bodily functions and metabolic processes, with forays into ecology and the
interaction between living organisms and their environment. High school biology
offers students a more in-depth analysis of the topics covered in elementary
and middle school. Through lectures, readings, examinations, research
assignments and lab exercises, high school biology courses provide students
with the opportunity to explore microbiology, biotechnology and biomedical
issues. Additionally, Advanced Placement biology courses cover three major
topic areas: molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, and organisms and
populations.
Teaching Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of matter and it’s composition. It is one
of the most important branches of science in that it serves as a foundation for
more advanced areas of biology, geology, astronomy and more. It stems from the
periodic table of the elements: the elements’ discovery, composition and uses.
Chemistry students study the atom and atomic structure, learning how they fuse
together to create compounds.
Students are first introduced to overarching principles of
chemistry such as the states of matter, conservation of matter and the
composition of matter as collections of molecules and atoms. These topics are
then explored through simple chemical reactions and everyday applications of
chemistry. Introductory Chemistry is a required course at most high schools in
the United States. High school chemistry instructors teach students the
mathematical reasoning behind the principles of chemistry. Curricula for
Introductory Chemistry focus on chemical bonds and compounds, as well as
stoichiometry, the mathematical analysis of chemical reactions. Students
establish familiarity with chemistry equations and the periodic table of the
elements, preparing them for Advanced Placement Chemistry, which involves a
more in-depth mathematical analysis of the concepts covered in Introductory
Chemistry.
Teaching Physics
Physics encompasses the science of matter, motion and energy. A
highly advanced and complex area of science, physics is not usually taught at
the elementary and middle school levels. However, elements of physics are
incorporated into the general science education that younger students receive.
In elementary and middle school, students begin to learn about gravity,
friction and kinetic energy all of which are basic principles of physics.
Physics is often offered in high school after students have
completed introductory levels of biology and chemistry. High school physics
begins to incorporate mathematics through physics equations and formulas. A
typical high school physics curriculum begins with general theories of motion,
including force, kinetic energy, friction and acceleration. Classes then cover
more advanced motion, such as tension.
