This interdisciplinary science program offers an integrated study of general biology, general chemistry and mathematics, through the examination of concepts, theories, and structures that underlie the natural sciences. It is intended for students who are interested in pursuing more advanced coursework in biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences.
The nature of living organisms will be examined on molecular, cellular, physiological, and ecological levels within the context of evolutionary history. Chemical topics of equilibria, thermodynamics, and kinetics will provide a framework to understand biological and ecological systems. Students will engage with these themes using an experimental approach to develop analytical and quantitative and mathematical reasoning skills. They will participate in hands-on field and laboratory experiences to improve their problem-solving abilities directed at understanding natural phenomena and work with Excel to describe and analyze data. Scientific and statistical concepts will build over the entire year, so it is in your best interest to enroll in the program for all three quarters.
In fall quarter we will integrate topics of biology and chemistry through the study of evolution and ecology, examining evolutionary processes on a macro level through the study of plants and animals, diversification of life, and ecology. In addition, concepts and procedures of pre-calculus 1 will be presented as a problem-solving-based overview of functions that model change. With faculty permission and appropriate prerequisites, a student can enroll in Calculus and Analytical Geometry 1 in fall quarter instead of pre-calculus I. In winter quarter, molecular structure and properties will enhance our understanding of biological function at the molecular level. These will be covered through the study of genetics and inheritance, structure and synthesis of DNA and proteins, and how these molecules are integrated into cells. Chemical concepts of kinetics and equilibria will enhance these studies. We will continue with our study of pre-calculus and work extensively with sinusoidal modeling and different coordinate systems. With faculty permission and appropriate prerequisites, a student can enroll in Calculus and Analytical Geometry 2 in winter quarter instead of pre-calculus. In spring quarter, we will focus on both the molecular and organismal levels of biology, from key metabolic processes to important concepts in animal and plant physiology. We will also examine equilibrium reactions in greater depth and begin our study of thermodynamics.
Weekly program activities will include lectures, small-group problem-solving workshops, as well as laboratory work, and field experiences. Students can expect to do labs each week, maintain lab notebooks, and write formal lab reports. Assessment of learning will occur through many methods such as in-class and online quizzes and exams, homework assignments, written reports, and projects. This program is designed for students who want a solid preparation for further study in the sciences. Students who want only to get a taste of science will find this program especially demanding and should consult with faculty before the program begins.
Registration
Students entering in winter must have completed one quarter each of college level general chemistry and general biology or the equivalent. Students need to demonstrate knowledge of fall quarter material. Contact the faculty for more information and to arrange an assessment (mckinstl at evergreen.edu)
Students entering in spring must have completed two quarters each of college level general chemistry and general biology or the equivalent. Students need to demonstrate knowledge of fall quarter material. Contact the faculty for more information and to arrange an assessment (mckinstl at evergreen.edu)
Course Reference Numbers
Academic Details
Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Health Sciences
$50 each quarter for a required lab fee
For spring: Total fee $70 for required lab fee ($50) and reader fee ($20).