Academics

The composition and behavior of matter are the focus of chemistry. The course follows a largely historical approach and focuses on the development of conceptual models through numerous laboratory experiments, demonstrations, and student-centered instruction. Over the course of the year, students will, for example, discover absolute zero, learn how to count particles too small to be seen, design and build small rockets powered by different fuels, discover the chemical basis behind the greenhouse effect & global warming and compare the combustion of different alcohols as possible alternatives to gasoline.  In the process, most of the topics expected in a typical college-preparatory course will be covered. Much of the instruction and learning will take place during the students’ drawing of pictures that model at the submicroscopic level the phenomena we observe. Studies emphasize qualitative and quantitative lab work, critical analysis of experimental results, along with numerous demonstrations.  A variety of projects during the year will allow students to apply their new knowledge and skills in new situations.
Prerequisite: Algebra I

Geology has been a course offering at CRMS since the school’s beginning, and with good reason.  In this course you will learn to read the deep history of planet earth that is written in the very rock we ski through, climb up, paddle down, and backpack through.  In that regard, this is a very field-based course and is a great option for you if you want to get outside. Do you like picnic lunches in the outdoors?  Geology classes are designed to be on either end of the lunch period so that we can pack a lunch and extend our field trip windows.  Geology (in the way it is taught at CRMS) is also a great scientific discipline to dive into that does not have a math requirement. Finally, the course also aligns with Spring Trip (every geology student prepares a geology lesson for their Spring Trip group, but there is also a geology specific spring trip that students can sign up for) and Interim (there is a geology specific interim offering every year). This is a yearlong course.
Prerequisite: Chemistry

Physics is all about attempting to understand and explain the physical phenomena in the world around us. The process can be challenging and often mind-bending as students wrestle to reconcile their years of experience in the world with scientifically accepted conceptual models. In class, we celebrate this challenge and the difficult process that is science. The course is focused on creating conceptual models that are built from student observations and data collected in small groups. Class periods revolve around solving problems in small groups or trying to clarify misconceptions or misunderstandings during class discussions. While Physics is the most mathematically heavy science course at CRMS, the emphasis is on ensuring a qualitative understanding of the concepts of physics. However, most students find that their math skills improve during the year as they discover the delightful fact that math helps to clarify and solve problems rather than hinder understanding. Topics covered include a description of motion, the causes of motion, forces, energy, and momentum as seen through the lens of classical mechanics as well as a discussion of electrostatics and electrical circuits. Most topics covered either start or finish with laboratory experiments, projects, or tutorials.
Prerequisites: Algebra II, Biology, and Chemistry

AP Physics C–Mechanics is a year-long course following the curriculum dictated by the College Board. Students learn and are expected to apply differential and integral calculus as it is relevant to the topics studied in mechanics. Early emphasis is placed on differentiation in the study of the relationships between position, velocity, and acceleration. Integration is emphasized most in the study of work and energy. Lab work is built into the curriculum and makes up a large portion of the class. Students are required/encouraged to take the AP Exam in May.
Prerequisite: Calculus AB, Physics. May be taken concurrently with Calculus only with teacher approval.

This class takes advantage of CRMS's unique location to study and examine the natural world in a relevant, hands-on way. The course is designed to be the equivalent of a college-level course with extensive field and laboratory work that requires organization, planning, and critical thinking skills. Covered topics include ecology, population dynamics, earth science, and human impact at local, regional, and global levels. Students engage in the content by monitoring the health of the Crystal river using a macroinvertebrate survey, wrestling global population policy in a mock UN debate, and collaborating in group projects about climate change and invasive species. Students enrolled are required to take the AP exam in May. As an AP course, students should expect extra reading and homework.  Summer and Winter Break work required.
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in Algebra II.