Science (High School)

Living Environment

Living Environment is a course that explores different aspects of living organisms, their interaction with the physical environment, and the principles that govern their existence. The course covers the study of cells and their biochemical functions, human body systems, homeostasis, heredity and genetics, reproduction and development, theories of evolution, ecology, and the impact of human beings on ecosystems. This course is usually the first high school level science that students take, so emphasis is placed on understanding the basic concepts and methods of scientific inquiry, including creating hypotheses, designing experiments to test natural phenomena, mastering basic lab skills and techniques, and writing lab reports. Students are required by New York State to conduct several experiments each year. The course at Fei Tian also extends beyond empirical science to explore concepts in Chinese medicine as well as other non-reductionist views of science.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry

This course focuses on understanding fundamental concepts of physics through experimentation and conceptual problem solving. Laboratory experiments and investigative demonstrations play a large part in daily activities and students use graphing calculators and computers to collect and analyze physical data and present an organized lab report. Topics include graphing physical data, accelerated motion and forces, energy, waves, light and sound, electricity, and magnetism.

Theater Technology

This course acts as an introduction to theater production with an emphasis on technical elements. Students will learn the basics of scenic, sound, and lighting design. They will have opportunities to participate in stage management and construct props, sets, and scenery. This is an experiential education course that is only offered during the winter term during a student’s practicum. Students will have all theory and knowledge placed in the context of staging live productions. Each winter term carries one half unit of credit, so two winter terms must be completed for a student to receive one full science credit.