Select a Division & Department

Science

  • Physics

    In this course, students will gain a functional understanding of the fundamental concepts of physics. Through modeling, guided inquiry, group discussion, and hands-on investigations, students will explore topics in experimental design, logic, kinematics, and mechanics (motion, forces, and energy). We will guide them in discovering the nature of science while they develop critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills by designing their own experiments, engineering and building their own structures, analyzing their data, and communicating their results to others. This course focuses on developing concepts, principles, and skills that will provide a solid framework for further study of science.
  • Physics (Algebra-based)

    he goal of this course is to develop students who are able to explain the physical world around them from a scientific perspective. Students will uncover Algebra I based Physics and Mechanics. Using the tool of scientific investigation, you will be guided in constructing your own knowledge and developing your own understanding.The Conceptual Physics approach engages students with analogies and imagery from real-world situations to build a strong conceptual understanding of physical principles ranging from classical mechanics to modern physics. With this strong conceptual foundation, students are better equipped to understand the algebraic equations and formulas of physics, We will try to provide you with the tools and the best learning environment; you must provide an open mind and the “energy” needed to learn and question.
    Requirement: Any student not enrolled in Geometry or beyond.
  • Physics (Geometry-based)

    The goal of this course is to develop students who are able to explain the physical world around them from a scientific perspective. Students will uncover Geometry based Physics and Mechanics. Using the tool of scientific investigation, you will be guided in constructing your own knowledge and developing your own understanding. Students will model phenomena that occur in the natural world while developing and learning the fundamental concepts, key theories, and guiding equations in physics. This course incorporates a modeling approach as defined by the ASU AMTA.  Students will develop complex models based on four representations: words, diagrams, graphs, and equations.  We will try to provide you with the tools and the best learning environment; you must provide an open mind and the “energy” needed to learn and question.
    Requirement: Enrollment in Geometry or beyond.
  • Chemistry

    Chemistry is an introductory course in which the study of the fundamental properties of matter provides the foundation for the development of both qualitative and quantitative models of chemical systems. The course includes an examination of atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions and bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, the behavior of gases, periodicity, intermolecular and intramolecular forces, solution chemistry, and acids/bases. Laboratory work and related problem-solving exercises are integrated into most aspects of the year's work. This course provides students with an excellent foundation for understanding the molecular aspects of Biology.  Prerequisite: Algebra I
  • Integrated Chemistry

    Integrated Chemistry builds on the foundation of the nature of science in the physical environment and expands into the fundamental properties of matter, which provides the groundwork for the development of both qualitative and quantitative models of chemical systems in our world. The course includes an examination of atomic and molecular structures, chemical bonding and reactions, thermochemistry, and other patterns through the lens of current environmental issues. Students will learn this material through a variety of assessments including lab work, critical readings, critical thinking, or complex problem-solving in addition to standard homework, quizzes, and tests. This course provides students with a concrete foundation for understanding the molecular aspects of biology. Prerequisite: Algebra I.
  • Biology

    This course leads students through an exploration of life from microscopic cells to macroscopic ecosystems. In the first semester, students investigate the biochemical and biophysical processes that support life, the structures that enable such processes, and the advances in biotechnology made possible by our understanding of these. Students study the production and transfer of energy, growth, development, reproduction, and heredity at various levels from sub-cellular organelles to organ systems. In the second semester, students discover the diversity of life and develop an introductory understanding of how and why species and ecosystems change. Students analyze and apply classification schemes and evaluate the impact on ecosystems of changes in populations and resources.
    Prerequisite: Environmental Chemistry or Chemistry
  • Integrated Biology

    This course is the capstone for the global science pathway; it leads students through an exploration of life from microscopic cells to macroscopic systems. The first half of the year is dedicated to the discovery of possible protective measures for the diversity of life alongside developing an understanding of how and why species and ecosystems change. Using labs and other methods, students evaluate the human effect on local and global ecosystems. The second half of the year uses the characteristics of living things, like production and transfer of energy, growth, development, reproduction, and heredity as themes to explore life in nature. Students use macroscopic organisms to explore how cells power the living world.
    Prerequisite: Environmental Chemistry or Chemistry
  • AP Physics 1

    AP Physics I will not longer be offered after the 2021-2022 school year.
    AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, conservation, and waves.  The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics, angular momentum, and gravitation); work, energy, and power;  simple harmonic motion. 
    Corequisite: Algebra II.  Permission of the department.
  • AP Chemistry

    AP Chemistry is a second-year chemistry course for students who have an interest in studying chemistry beyond the introductory level. The College Board AP Chemistry syllabus is followed as the major themes of chemistry are examined in detail through lecture, laboratory, independent study, and demonstration. This is a rigorous course that treats the topics in greater depth and students are expected to be more independent learners. Extensive lab work is required, and labs serve as an integral part of the topics covered during the course. Out-of-class work can be extensive and demanding. A major goal is the development of problem-solving skills, which employ thoughtful and logical approaches. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry Examination in May. Prerequisite: Chemistry and Algebra II. Permission of the department.
  • AP Biology

    A college biology course with a focus on enduring conceptual understandings and the biological content that supports them. The course is structured around big ideas and science practices that develop an appreciation for biology and the ability to identify and understand unifying principles. Biochemistry, cells, energy, and communication are covered in the first semester. Heredity, genes, evolution, and ecology are covered in the second semester. College Board guidelines are followed and out-of-class work is extensive and demanding. There is a significant amount of required summer reading and notes. 
    Prerequisites: Chemistry, Biology. Permission of the department.
  • AP Environmental Science

    This College Board AP Environmental Science course is designed to engage students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand complex interrelationships within the natural world. This course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. 
    Prerequisite: Physics and Chemistry, Biology recommended. Permission of the department.
  • Bioethics

    (one semester)
    This course introduces students to bioethical issues regarding contemporary advancements in biotechnology. Students will analyze, evaluate, defend, and reflect upon contemporary ethical issues while critically, yet respectfully engaging with opposing views. Students will leave this course as morally and ethically responsible individuals as we strive to fulfill the Gilmour mission in creating a more humane and just society.
    Open to juniors and seniors.
     
  • Catalyst

    (One semester)
    Catalyst is a research internship in which students are paired with mentors at prominent institutions throughout the Greater Cleveland area. Students spend a minimum of four (4) hours per week working on an authentic research project at a site assigned based upon student interest and abilities. Weekly journaling, weekly group meetings, and participation in a research symposium are included among course requirements. The program is designed to help students discover the nature of science, think critically in a research context and effectively communicate scientific information to various audiences. Catalyst demands of the students a high degree of independence, responsibility, and initiative. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and parking fees. The time and energy commitments are comparable to those in AP science courses, grades for this course will receive AP weighting. Summer Catalyst course requires students to spend five weeks at their research site and complete additional course requirements during the first two months of the fall semester.  
    Prerequisites: Junior or Senior status and permission of the instructor.
  • Envrnmntl. Science

    (one semester)
    This course enables students to develop a deeper understanding of our local biome and some of the complex interrelationships that contribute to properly functioning native ecosystems.  Students will become more aware of, and familiar with, local biological communities as they engage in extensive outdoor field investigations on the Gilmour campus and at nearby natural areas. Students will learn to use a variety of tools designed to gather relevant data about the natural world and record their observations in a field notebook. They will work on a campus inventory of biodiversity and discern the presence and potential influence of invasive plant species. Students will learn about and engage in biological assessments that provide information about habitat quality using various biological indicators, such as stream quality monitoring, soil surveys, and iTree. Group work and classroom presentations are part of this unique course.
     
  • Environment & Society

    (one semester)
    Students in this course will begin by taking a close look into the region’s geological history and the geographical attributes of northeast Ohio which contribute to local weather patterns, soil distribution and therefore the distribution of local plant and animal communities. After forming this basis for discovery, students will carry their investigations outside and begin to apply their understanding of the region to human interactions with the local environment, allowing them to extrapolate to a global understanding of life on earth. This course will include field trips to explore a variety of local natural areas and phenological phenomena, as well as exploring water resources and the ways in which humans interact with, and thus impact the region through food production, waste removal and development.
  • Forensic Science

    (One semester)
    Forensics is a field where science is applied in a very concrete and pragmatic way. This lab-based elective gives students the opportunity to integrate their knowledge of chemistry, physics and biology while improving problem solving abilities in a crime lab context. Students will not only learn about and practice analytical methods, they will evaluate reliability and probative value. Engaging activities such as case studies and mock scene processing provide fun opportunities to emphasize scientific methodology, inductive and deductive logic, ethics, and probability/uncertainty. Students will leave this course as discerning citizens ready for competent jury service.
  • Human Anatomy & Physiology

    (One semester)
    This is a survey course about the human body. Students will study the sequential composition of the human body from simple atoms to organ systems. They will examine how different organ systems collectively work to maintain the delicate internal balance of the human body. Many of the anatomical studies will include dissection of various specimens and other laboratory activities that will help students get a full understanding of the unity of structure and function in the human body. 
    Prerequisite: One semester of Biology
  • Molecular Gntcs Rsrch

    (One semester)
    An introductory class for anyone that likes to work on in-class projects. Students perform PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid construction, gene cloning, and other techniques typically found in a college research lab. All assignments are done in class. Students work on an authentic molecular genetics research project that may be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. The class can be taken 1 or more semesters and, most importantly, students will enjoy the hands-on nature of this science class.
  • Engineering & Mol. Gntcs Rsrch

    (One semester)
    An introductory class for anyone that likes to work on in-class projects. Students work individually or in groups to engineer a machine that performs biological research. Projects include the fabrication of a system for photographing genetically-engineered microorganisms, the coding of a robot that performs a molecular genetics experiment, or the engineering of a magnetic system for the separation of biomolecules. All assignments are done in class, and projects can be used in science competitions. The class can be taken 1 or more semesters and, most importantly, students will enjoy the hands-on nature of this science class.


  • AP PHYS C: Electricity & Magnetism

    AP Physics C: E&M is offered every even fall year. Students will uncover Electricity and Magnetism. topics including electrostatics, electric circuits, conductors, capacitors, dielectrics, magnetic fields, and electromagnetism. Students will learn to apply differential and integral calculus in order to solve problems associated with these concepts. Build your understanding and critical thinking skills through inquiry-based, laboratory investigations that explore these physics concepts. 
    Corequisite: AP Calculus AB. Permission of the department.
  • AP PHYS C: Mechanics

    AP Physics C: Mechanics is offered every odd fall year. Students will uncover Mechanics first semester topics including kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; and gravitation. Students will learn to apply differential and integral calculus in order to solve problems associated with these concepts. Build your understanding and critical thinking skills through inquiry-based, laboratory investigations that explore these physics concepts. 
    Corequisite: AP Calculus AB. Permission of the department.
  • AP Physics 2

    AP Physics 2 is a second-year physics course designed to expand students understanding of physics as they explore topics such as fluids; thermodynamics; electric force, field, and potential; electric circuits; magnetism and electromagnetic induction; geometric and physical optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Students will participate in hands-on and inquiry-based in-class activities and laboratory work to investigate phenomena. Students are required to take the AP Physics 2 examination in May.
    Prerequisites: Physics and Permission of the department. Corequisite: Enrollment in Functions.
  • Intro to Sports Medicine

    (One semester)
    This course introduces students to Sports Medicine, providing a foundational understanding of the principles, practices, and applications underpinning the intersection of medicine and athletic performance. The history of Sports Medicine, potential career opportunities, and the educational background needed will be discussed to promote professional development. Anatomical parts of the body will be identified which will aid to better understand the type of injuries that occur. Students will gain knowledge of the tissue injury cycle at the cellular level, which allows them to have a complete understanding of the healing process. The evaluation sequence, along with proper documentation will be introduced and students will apply this knowledge to various injuries. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in Sports Medicine, enabling them to contribute to the health and well-being of their peers and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the importance of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. 

Faculty

An independent, Catholic, coed, day and boarding school in the Holy Cross tradition. Toddler-Grade 12.
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