Science and Society

In this course we will examine the choices we make about science and technology, and how those choices impact us personally, as well as society and the natural world locally, regionally, and globally.  Rather than studying just one branch of science, we may draw from environmental science, biology, chemistry and earth science, as well as the social sciences, as we consider complex issues.

We will focus on three major topics, spending approximately one quarter on each one. Tentatively, these topics are:

      Unit One: Becoming an Educated Healthcare Consumer

      Unit Two: Our Energy Future

      Unit Three: Science and Technology in Your Future: Careers

The course will focus on student research, and will involve information gathering, research question generation, experimentation, conceptual framework mapping, revision, and reporting. We will develop skills critically reading scientific and consumer information, effectively searching databases, organizing information for understanding, and presenting findings through printed and electronic media.

Materials:

-Pen and pencil,

-Spiral binder

-A notebook/protfolio with sections for:

     notes,

     handouts and photocopies,

     written drafts and homework assignments,

     articles and personal reflections

     tests and final papers

-Small, portable "jump drive" (external usb drive); min 128 mb

Homework assignments and longer term assignment deadlines are firm.  Points will be deducted if not ready at the beginning of the period on the due date.

Grades will be based on points earned for:

     Portfolio                                 25%

     Homework assignments  &     25%

           active participation

     Projects                                  25%

     Quarterly tests                        25%