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| ACADEMICS |
| Departmental Mission
Statements |
| SCIENCE DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT |
The Science Department shares the overall goals of the Global Leader Program: to teach students the creative thinking based on deep knowledge and thorough analysis of the experimental facts and critical comparison of different theories and points of view.
The course of physics is based on learning science through practice, creating theoretical and experimental models of natural phenomena, and discussing the strong and weak sides of the models in a seminar-type atmosphere. The crucial aspect of the course is viewing the processes of physics through experimental demonstrations and understanding those processes through fruitful discussions. The course mainly follows the AP Physics program and is divided into two levels. The difference between the levels is mostly determined by the level of difficulty of mathematics used. The higher level course consists of more sophisticated problems within the same framework of topics.
Primary attention will be given to the ability to present scientific statements in the exact mathematical form with accurate mathematical equations. Second, we will practice solving rather complex systems of mathematical equations. Finally, we will develop the analytical and language skills particular to science that allow for the translation of mathematical results into common words and categories.
Memorization of the main facts and laws of science should be reached mainly through solving and discussing corresponding problems. This problem-solving process is best facilitated through small study groups that help students focus their attention and improve knowledge retention.
Quizzes and exams consist of a few problems which should be solved mathematically and one experimental demonstration or well-known natural phenomenon that needs to be explained. This last problem requires a thorough written explanation in essay form and supporting mathematical models are highly encouraged. When grading these tests the main attention is paid to logic in speculation and creative thinking.
The science department believes that science courses should be more than just a skills training. We want our students to have a curious mind and the ability to ponder the simplicities found in daily life, find new unusual properties of well-known objects, and develop a constructive skepticism based on comprehensive analysis and logical thinking. We trust that scientific knowledge is the basic tool in society and it helps us adapt well to the demands of the future.
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