S112 Field Studies
Field Studies is designed to expose Third Form students to essential concepts of natural physical sciences, utilizing field and laboratory studies. The landscapes of the Salisbury School campus and the surrounding area provide an ideal outdoor classroom through which students will gain exposure to concepts that are the foundation of studies in Biology, Environmental Science, Forestry, and Geology. The fall trimester is devoted to ecosystem function, including species identification and geological principles. The winter trimester is spent largely indoors and concentrates on quantitative aspects of science fundamental to physics and chemistry. In the spring the class will return to field work, concluding the year with a comprehensive study and report on vernal pool ecosystems.
S222 Biology
This course examines the structure and function of living organisms as seen through the historical development of biological concepts, beginning with the cell. The relationship of organisms to their environment, the progression from simple to complex, and continuity in change are essential elements of study.
S332E Environmental Science
This course explores environmental issues from three vantage points: the unspoiled natural world, humanity’s impact on the natural world, and possible resolutions to problems. Students investigate historical and current ethical issues in our use of the natural environment. Field work is integrated into the course as a means of exploring the various ecosystems on the school’s acreage, including streams, lakes, forests, and ponds. Project-based investigations of our community are integrated into this course, with an emphasis on developing and improving our own stewardship of the local and global environment.
S342C Chemistry
This is an introductory chemistry course covering the following topics: an introduction to matter; compounds, mixtures, and elements; the metric system; measurements in science; atomic structure; the periodic table; chemical formulas and equations; stoichiometry, gases, water, and solutions; thermochemistry; reaction rates, equilibrium, acids, and bases; oxidation/reduction; and some carbon chemistry. The course addresses applications of chemistry concepts to the environment, energy, nutrition, and materials and processes in our world. Numerical problem solving and the ability to communicate scientific ideas are key skills that are developed and used throughout the course. Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra I
S342P Physics
Physics and Honors Physics are taught using Modeling Instruction, in which the students actively build scientific models of motion and forces by analyzing their own data. The group is seen as a scientific community. Discussions, presentations, and evidence-based arguments within that community are crucial to developing the physics models. The boys must question each other and justify their reasoning to each other. The course covers Newtonian mechanics, energy, and some topics in electricity and magnetism. Prerequisite: Algebra II
S442F 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 aspects 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.
S442G Geology
This course in geology is a fieldwork-based study of geologic landforms. We learn to understand geologic processes that lead to the formation and alteration of landforms through the study of plate tectonics, weathering and erosion, sedimentation, the action of running water, oceans and wind, volcanism, and glaciation. Students will learn to interpret landforms through hands-on work in the field as well as with the aid of in-class presentations, topographic maps, and three-dimensional photographs of geologic features. We will also discuss the direct influence of geology on decisions concerning human settlements, use of resources, and the alteration of the natural environment that results from use of resources. This course is not offered every year.
S442L Freshwater Ecology
Freshwater Ecology provides an overview of the physical, chemical, and biological processes that characterize inland waters such as lakes, streams, rivers, and wetlands. Through lectures, field excursions, and labs, students will gain hands-on experience in identifying organisms, assessing water quality through chemical analyses, and utilizing GIS/remote sensing technologies for data analysis. They hone their scientific communication skills through literature and media arts, culminating in a capstone project where they will work to conduct experiments, apply GIS techniques, or create a compelling documentary. The integrative approach fosters a deep understanding of freshwater ecosystems, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to their conservation and management, while instilling a sense of responsibility for preserving these vital resources. Prerequisite: Chemistry
S442RE Robotics Engineering: Microcontrollers and Rapid Prototyping
This year-long, project-based learning course immerses students in the essentials of robotics engineering, with a focus on microcontrollers and rapid prototyping. Students will engage in design thinking and engineering processes to develop solutions to real-world problems, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and iteration. Using Arduino microprocessors, students will design, prototype, build, and test electronic physical technologies. Key skills developed in the course include communication, research, experimentation, circuit design and analysis, prototyping, testing, iteration, computer-aided design, and 3D printing. Prerequisite: Fourth form or above
S442ESE Energy Systems Engineering
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of energy concepts and their applications in designing, analyzing, and optimizing human-made energy systems. The focus of the course will change during each of Salisbury's three trimesters. In the fall, students will learn foundational energy concepts in mechanical, thermal, and electrical energy, concluding with the study of circuits and their applications. During the winter term students will study renewable energy technologies, our electrical grid, and sustainable building design. In the spring, students will apply the knowledge that they’ve gained throughout the year as they carry out term-long group projects. Students will gain 21st century skills as they work in a team-based environment that mimics the workforce while conceptualizing, engineering, and prototyping devices harvest energy from nature, re-capture dissipated energy, or store energy in creative and innovative ways. Prerequisite: Algebra 1
S553 Sustainability
This course is designed to introduce the concepts and theories of sustainability and explores how Salisbury gentlemen can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation, and resource limitations. Focused on Salisbury School and its greater community through a project-based learning and student-centered pedagogy, students will investigate key areas of sustainability theory and practice, including populations, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics and policy, ethics, and cultural history. Student choice and interest will play a critical role in the projects and activities completed within this course. Prerequisites: Field Studies or Biology
