Science

Science at Wasatch Academy aims to prepare students for higher education and the real world by challenging them to willingly think critically and creatively about the various scientific phenomena that make up our world.

Students will use the scientific method to analyze data graphically and analytically, as well as answer real world scientific questions. The science department aims to cultivate the future population of scientists and emphasize the importance of both an inquisitive mind and a thoughtful and active listener and individual.

Courses

  • A precursor to all sciences. After finishing this class, students will understand the scientific method and the importance of science, and have a basic introduction to most sciences.

  • The study of what makes living organisms living and their vital system, processes, and interactions

  • The study of the fundamental units of all matter and how they come together to form the compounds and molecules that we interact with on a daily basis.

  • The study of how matter behaves through space and time and the fundamental laws associated with those behaviors, including energy and forces.

  • Explores notable constellations, planets, and stars in the night sky each month. Explains driving principles behind astronomical phenomena such as meteor showers, planetary orbits, and the phases of the moon. Connects literature and historical views of the solar system to what can be seen in the night sky. Students will have the opportunity to discuss cutting edge astronomy research and advancements in space exploration.

  • An exploration of higher order chemistry topics that focus on pharmaceuticals, immune response response, biochemical processes, and brain functionality.

  • A college-level course described by the College Board as one where students complete inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as: evolution, energetics, energy and communication, and system interactions, as stated on College Board’s course overview.

  • AP Physics (C, “Mechanics”) is a year-long elective class that follows the curriculum provided by the College Board for the equivalent of a year of introductory college Physics. The prerequisite is a year of high school Physics and a year of Calculus. A co-requisite of Calculus may be an option pending approval from the instructor. AP calculus will expand on the “regular” physics course delving deeper into the mathematical aspects of physics, complex problem solving, and conceptual understanding of the material covered. Major topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotational dynamics, and simple harmonic motion. Hands-on labs exploring all the major physics topics will be performed while learning about measurement, data collection, and statistics with data display and discussion. Students are expected to take the AP exam in May at the end of the school year. This course would be an excellent option for those students considering a college major in Physical Science or Engineering.

  • Duration: 1 trimester

    The study of the structure and the function of the human body.

  • Duration: 1 trimester

    Every rock-climbing venue presents new challenges to climbers because of its unique rock texture, composition, and environment. All rock climbers are empirical geologists because of the direct personal experience they have with a variety of rock types. This class is designed to expand the climber's knowledge of the rock to include the geologic processes involved in its creation and sculpting. We will climb a number of areas that have experienced various geologic histories and that are composed of diverse rock types.