Science
Actively experience science
The Science department strives to instill in our students a sense of curiosity about the natural and physical world, along with a development of sound knowledge and competency in scientific skills. Students will develop critical reasoning skills to observe, interpret data, solve problems, and develop well-supported conclusions. We strive to develop communication skills in our students to ask and answer sound questions, pursue deep discussions, and convey their understanding in different ways: mathematical, verbal, and visual. We hope to convey the broad application of science to other academic disciplines and the world as a whole. In short, we try to develop independent learners who can use their scientific toolkit as a method of inquiry, problem solving, and life-long learning.
Science Offerings At Salisbury:
The academic life at Salisbury is motivating. The teachers, coaches, and mentors at Salisbury are exceptional. They bring passion and expertise into their intimate classroom settings. Collaboration, innovation, problem solving, creativity, and civic responsibility are just some of the principles that guide Salisbury School’s educational model. Most importantly, these men and women partner with you each day and always with the highest expectations.
Dean of Academic Life Sarah Mulrooney
A Glimpse At Just Two Of Our Offerings:
Psychological and Brain Sciences
This yearlong course will introduce students to the complexities of the human brain, mind, and behavior. With a particular emphasis on the brain and neuroscience, students will investigate the major sub-disciplines of psychology including: consciousness; development through the life span; sex, gender, and sexuality; sensation and perception; learning; memory; thinking, language and intelligence; motivation and emotion; stress and health; social psychology; psychological disorders; and treatment. Students will develop analytical skills, conduct research, and formulate a keen understanding of how neural activity in the brain impacts our underlying psychological processes. Using a scientific mindset, students will investigate the most fundamental questions of the mind and behavior and gain an appreciation for the study of psychology.
FOREST SCIENCE
The purpose of the course is to teach students about forest ecology and the practice of forestry. The range of topics is comprehensive, and covers the scientific, technical, and social aspect of American forestry. The course introduces students to the importance of healthy forests as a contributing factor to ecological and economic stability. Salisbury School is situated within its own 600 acre forest, which serves as an outdoor laboratory for much of the students’ field work. The course covers twelve topics, including tree identification and dendrology, plant physiology, forest ecology, stress, forest genetics, measurements and sampling, silviculture, wildlife, policy and economics, and forest products. Recent issues of global significance include carbon sequestration, deforestation, and the impacts of invasive species. In addition, students prepare independent presentations in forest hydrology, the role of fire, and mapping.