The Science Department has rearranged its required curricular sequence, to begin with the study of conceptual physics, chemistry with an environmental focus, and biology. Teachers integrate ideas from other major science disciplines so that students focus on major conceptual themes in science and observe their interconnectedness. The department views curriculum improvement as an ongoing process. The tenth grade chemistry program has an environmental and issues-based focus so students can experience the links between chemistry and the real world. This year Honors Chemistry has an intranet site that provides assignment calendars, answers to homework problems, and enrichment exercises for students.
Most students elect to take four years of science, even though the requirement is only three years.
They often enroll in these elective courses in addition to the AP options, and the electives also provide a continuation of science studies for non-AP students. All science laboratories have laser disc players and VCRs, and some have new computers. The Mudd Seminar Room is now equipped with a new computer and projection system, so the department's sophisticated new CD-ROMs in human biology and astronomy can be used in an interactive setting. The Keck Computer Lab on the first floor of the Mudd Building is used when class exercises require that all students have a computer. Two Cate students, Shelly Lee '94 and Erica Altman '97, received national recognition for their achievements in science and math by being named Tandy Technology Scholars.